Ecological importance of lepidopteran defoliators on eucalyptus plantations based in faunistic and natural enemy analyses

Areas planted with Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake variety platyphylla F. Muell. (Myrtaceae) expand annually in most regions of Brazil. Many lepidopteran species defoliate this plant, but with damage varying per species. The objective of this study was to identify the pest status of lepidopteran defoliators based in the faunistic analysis of these insects and of their natural enemies on E. urophylla variety platyphylla plantations in a representative producing region of Brazil. Adult moths of lepidopterans and of their natural enemies were captured using a light trap, installed every two weeks, from September 2016 to August 2018. A total of 183, 10, three and 139 lepidopteran species was captured and classified as primary, secondary, without defined importance to eucalypt plants and non-identified with 1,419, seven, 465 and 876 individuals, respectively. Two primary pest species were constants, two accessories and six accidentals and all secondary ones were accidentals. Six primary pest species were common and dominant and four non-dominants. Faunistic indices indicated the main lepidopteran species that should be monitored in pest management programs. Seven hymenopteran species (65 individuals), three dipterans (49 individuals) and two hemipterans (four individuals) were the natural enemies collected using light traps. The monitoring of lepidopteran pests with light traps can contribute to the management and to reduce damage and control costs for these species, besides identifying natural enemies for biological control programs in Eucalyptus plantations.

Combined Therapy of ATRA and Imatinib Mesylate Decreases BCR-ABL and ABCB1/MDR1 Expression Through Cellular Differentiation in a Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Model

BACKGROUND/AIM

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a clonal myeloproliferative disease, and a major challenge for the eradication of CML is to understand the cause of the permanence of minimal residual disease (DRM). This work aimed to induce the maturation of leukemic stem cells with All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), making them sensitive to treatment with Imatinib (IM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

K562 cells were treated with IM and with the combined therapy of ATRA together with IM for 48 and 72 h. The expression of BCR-ABL gene and multidrug resistance gene ABCB1 were evaluated using RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

The combined ATRA and IM therapy showed a discreet cell differentiation pattern, evidenced by the panoptic morphology analysis at 48 and 72 h of treatment. The BCR-ABL expression showed no statistical difference when treated alone with IM, however in combination with ATRA, the expression was statistically significant in 48 and 72 h (p≤0.0001) and when the treatment groups were compared to each other (p≤0.001). The ABCB1 gene expression showed a decrease in isolated IM therapy (p≤0.05) and in the combination in 48 and 72 h (p≤0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Combined ATRA and IM therapy was shown to be effective in decreasing BCR-ABL and ABCB1 genes, possibly through the differentiation of blast cells, demonstrating that the therapy could be potentially effective in the blast crisis of the disease and for those patients who develop resistance to available CML treatments.

Dynamical aspects of supercooled TIP3P-water in the grooves of DNA

We investigate by molecular dynamics simulations the mobility of the water located at the DNA minor and major grooves. We employ the TIP3P water model, and our system is analyzed for a range of temperatures 190-300 K. For high temperatures, the water at the grooves shows an Arrhenius behavior similar to that observed in the bulk water. At lower temperatures, a departure from the bulk behavior is observed. This slowing down in the dynamics is compared with the dynamics of the hydrogen of the DNA at the grooves and with the autocorrelation functions of the water hydrogen bonds. Our results indicate that the hydrogen bonds of the water at the minor grooves are highly correlated, which suggests that this is the mechanism for the slow dynamics at this high confinement.

Responses of the weed Bidens pilosa L. to exogenous application of the steroidal saponin protodioscin and plant growth regulators 24-epibrassinolide, indol-3-acetic acid and abscisic acid

The exogenous application of plant hormones and their analogues has been exploited to improve crop performance in the field. Protodioscin is a saponin whose steroidal moiety has some similarities to plant steroidal hormones, brassinosteroids. To test the possibility that protodioscin acts as an agonist or antagonist of brassinosteroids or other plant growth regulators, we compared responses of the weed species Bidens pilosa L. to treatment with protodioscin, brassinosteroids, auxins (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA). Seeds were germinated and grown in agar containing protodioscin, dioscin, brassinolides, IAA and ABA. Root apex respiratory activity was measured with an oxygen electrode. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes activities were assessed. Protodioscin at 48-240 μm inhibited growth of B. pilosa seedlings. The steroidal hormone 24-epibrassinolide (0.1-5 μm) also inhibited growth of primary roots, but brassicasterol was inactive. IAA at higher concentrations (0.5-10.0 μm) strongly inhibited primary root length and fresh weight of stems. ABA inhibited all parameters of seedling growth and also seed germination. Respiratory activity of primary roots (KCN-sensitive and KCN-insensitive) was activated by protodioscin. IAA and ABA reduced KCN-insensitive respiration. The content of MDA in primary roots increased only after protodioscin treatment. All assayed compounds increased APx and POD activity, with 24-epibrassinolide being most active. The activity of CAT was stimulated by protodioscin and 24-epibrassinolide. The results revealed that protodioscin was toxic to B. pilosa through a mechanism not related to plant growth regulator signalling. Protodioscin caused a disturbance in mitochondrial respiratory activity, which could be related to overproduction of ROS and consequent cell membrane damage.

Does BCR-ABL transcript type influence the prognosis of patients in chronic myelogenous leukemia chronic phase?

Introduction and objective

In this study, we evaluated the influence of the transcript type on hematological and clinical parameters, as well as the event-free survival of 50 patients in the Chronic myeloid leukemia chronic phase.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 55 patients with Chronic myeloid leukemia. The eligibility criteria were based on the availability of hematological and clinical baseline data in the medical records. Data on BCR-ABL transcripts were obtained from medical records.

Results

Eighteen patients (36%) had the b2a2 transcript, 24 (48%) had b3a2 and 8 (16%) had b2a2/b3a2. The median platelet count for transcripts b2a2, b3a2 and b2a2/b3a2 was 320.65 × 10³/L, 396 × 10³/L, and 327.05 × 10³/L, respectively (p = 0.896). We could not find any differences in relation to the other hematological parameters, when compared to the transcript type. Comparison between spleen and liver size and type of transcript did not differ inside the groups (p = 0.395 and p = 0.647, respectively) and the association between risk scores and transcript type did not show statistical significance (p > 0.05). The 21-month probability for event-free survival was 21%, 48% and 66% for the transcripts b2a2, b3a2 and b2a2/b3a2 respectively (p = 0.226)

Conclusion

We conclude that the expression BCR-ABL transcripts have no influence on hematological, clinical and event-free survival parameters of patients in the Chronic myeloid leukemia chronic phase.

Prolonged response to recombinant human erythropoietin treatment in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome at a single referral centre in Brazil

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of epoetin (EPO) alfa treatment on overall survival, event-free survival and response duration in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) who were treated at a haematological referral centre in northeastern Brazil.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 36 patients diagnosed with MDS and treated with EPO alfa at 30,000 to 60,000 IU per week. Clinical data were collected from medical records. The events assessed were non-response to treatment and progression to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism 7 and SPSS 24 software.

RESULTS

The overall survival of patients who received EPO alfa treatment was 51.64%, with a median of 65 months of treatment, and the overall survival of this group was 100% during the first 24 months. We detected a 43.5-month median event-free survival, with a response rate of 80.5%. We observed responses from 25 to 175 months. Patients with transfusion dependence and those with a high-risk stratification, as determined by the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS), the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R), the WHO classification-based Prognostic Scoring System (WPSS) and the WHO 2016, had a lower event-free survival than other patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the wide use of EPO alfa in the treatment of anaemia in patients with MDS, the median response duration is approximately only 24 months. Our data provide encouraging results concerning the benefits of using EPO alfa for the improvement of the quality of life, as patients treated with EPO showed higher overall survival, event-free survival rates and longer response durations than have been previously described in the literature.

Presence of CD34+ in Megakaryocytes in Association With p53 Expression Predicts Unfavorable Prognosis in Low-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients

BACKGROUND/AIM

Although risk stratification using the Prognostic Scores Systems (IPSS, WPSS and IPSS-R) incorporate key information about prognosis of patients with Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), patients classified as low-risk may evolve rapidly and aggressively, despite a "favorable" prognostic stratification. The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers for predicting prognosis, and for better stratification and management of these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Expression of CD34 and p53 in megakaryocytes was examined by immunohistochemistry in 71 MDS patients classified as low-risk.

RESULTS

CD34 staining in megakaryocytes was associated with p53 expression (p=0.0166). CD34 and p53 expression were associated to worse overall survival in patients (p=0.0281).

CONCLUSION

The presence of CD34 in megakaryocytes is associated with p53 expression and an adverse prognosis for MDS patients.

Wernicke's encephalopathy in a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma post-Autologous HSCT

Wernick's Encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency post hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). WE is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates, but due to its rare occurrence, it is rarely considered in patients submitted to this procedure. Considering that, the manuscript reports the clinical characteristics and the possible factors that predisposed the occurrence of WE in a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma post-Autologous HSCT. We conclude that WE should be considered in patients submitted to autologous HSCT associated with prolonged use of TPN and malnutrition.

Temperature of maximum density and excess properties of short-chain alcohol aqueous solutions: A simplified model simulation study

We perform an extensive computational study of binary mixtures of water and short-chain alcohols resorting to two-scale potential models to account for the singularities of hydrogen bonded liquids. Water molecules are represented by a well studied core softened potential which is known to qualitatively account for a large number of water's characteristic anomalies. Along the same lines, alcohol molecules are idealized by dimers in which the hydroxyl groups interact with each other and with water with a core softened potential as well. Interactions involving non-polar groups are all deemed purely repulsive. We find that the qualitative behavior of excess properties (excess volume, enthalpy, and constant pressure heat capacity) agrees with that found experimentally for alcohols such as t-butanol in water. Moreover, we observe that our simple solute under certain conditions acts as a "structure-maker," in the sense that the temperature of maximum density of the bulk water model increases as the solute is added, i.e., the anomalous behavior of the solvent is enhanced by the solute.

Interleukin-8 and nuclear factor kappa B are increased and positively correlated in myelodysplastic syndrome

The pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) is complex and depends on the interaction between aberrant hematopoietic cells and their microenvironment, probably including aberrations in cytokines and their signaling pathways. To evaluate interleukin-8 (IL-8) plasma levels and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) in patients with MDS and to test possible correlation between IL-8 and NF-Kb, a total of 45 individuals were analyzed: 25 consecutive adult de novo MDS patients and 20 sex and age-matched healthy elderly volunteers. IL-8 analysis was performed by ELISA and activity of NF-kB by chemiluminescent assay. MDS patients showed higher level of IL-8 when compared to controls (p = 0.006). Patients aged 75 and above showed even higher levels (p = 0.035). NF-kB activity was significantly elevated in MDS patients when compared to controls (p < 0.0001) and higher in patients older than 75 years (p = 0.047). NF-kB activity was associated with higher serum ferritin (p = 0.042) and higher percentage of blasts (p = 0.028). A significant positive correlation between IL-8 and NF-kB was demonstrated (r = 0.480; p = 0.015). Many pathways involved in pathophysiology of MDS have been recently described, suggesting that an inflammatory process may act as a pathogenic driver. In this study, significantly elevated levels of IL-8 and NF-kB were demonstrated in MDS patients, with positive association of NF-kB with some markers of poor prognosis. A positive correlation between IL-8 and NF-kB suggests they cooperate as part of a complex networking of immune and inflammatory factors involved in MDS.

Lattice model for water-solute mixtures

A lattice model for the study of mixtures of associating liquids is proposed. Solvent and solute are modeled by adapting the associating lattice gas (ALG) model. The nature of interaction of solute/solvent is controlled by tuning the energy interactions between the patches of ALG model. We have studied three set of parameters, resulting in, hydrophilic, inert, and hydrophobic interactions. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations were carried out, and the behavior of pure components and the excess properties of the mixtures have been studied. The pure components, water (solvent) and solute, have quite similar phase diagrams, presenting gas, low density liquid, and high density liquid phases. In the case of solute, the regions of coexistence are substantially reduced when compared with both the water and the standard ALG models. A numerical procedure has been developed in order to attain series of results at constant pressure from simulations of the lattice gas model in the grand canonical ensemble. The excess properties of the mixtures, volume and enthalpy as the function of the solute fraction, have been studied for different interaction parameters of the model. Our model is able to reproduce qualitatively well the excess volume and enthalpy for different aqueous solutions. For the hydrophilic case, we show that the model is able to reproduce the excess volume and enthalpy of mixtures of small alcohols and amines. The inert case reproduces the behavior of large alcohols such as propanol, butanol, and pentanol. For the last case (hydrophobic), the excess properties reproduce the behavior of ionic liquids in aqueous solution.

Association of oxidative stress and DNA damage with grafting time in patients with multiple myeloma and lymphoma submitted to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

The aim of the study was to investigate the association between oxidative stress and DNA damage with grafting time in patients submitted to autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). The study included 37 patients submitted to autologous HSCT diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma (MM) and lymphoma (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's). Biomarkers of oxidative stress and DNA damage index (DI) were performed at baseline (pre-CR) of the disease and during the conditioning regimen (CR), one day after the HSCT, ten days after HSCT and twenty days after HSCT, as well as in the control group consisting of 30 healthy individuals. The outcomes showed that both groups of patients had an hyperoxidative state with high DI when compared to baseline and to the control group and that the CR exacerbated this condition. However, after the follow-up period of the study, this picture was re-established to the baseline levels of each pathology. The study patients with MM showed a mean grafting time of 10.75 days (8 to 13 days), with 10.15 days (8 to 15 days) for the lymphoma patients. In patients with MM, there was a negative correlation between the grafting time and the basal levels of GPx (r = -0.54; p = 0.034), indicating that lower levels of this important enzyme are associated with a longer grafting time. For the DI, the correlation was a positive one (r = 0.529; p = 0.030). In the group with lymphoma, it was observed that the basal levels of NOx were positively correlated with grafting time (r = 0.4664, p = 0.032). The data indicate the potential of these biomarkers as predictors of toxicity and grafting time in patients with MM and Lymphomas submitted to autologous HSCT.

Relevance of prognostic factors in the decision-making of stem cell transplantation in Myelodysplastic Syndromes

The hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative alternative for Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), but many patients are not eligible for this treatment, as there are several limiting factors, especially in the case of patients with low-risk MDS. The aim of this study is to discuss the factors that can guide the decision-making on referring or not a patient to HSCT. Three cases of MDS, two of which were submitted to HSCT are presented. We intend to report the difficulties in referring patients with MDS to transplant and the prognostic factors that contribute to define eligibility.

Catalase and Glutathione Peroxidase in Dogs Naturally Infected by Leishmania infantum

Background: Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is caused by an obligatory intracellular parasite of Leishmania genus that  affects organs and tissues. Several studies evaluate the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of many diseases. The overproduction of ROS on infectious diseases can induce an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants at cellular or systemic level. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of antioxidant enzymes in CanL.Materials, Methods & Results: Females (n = 17) and males (n = 10), at different ages and with different weight, were selected for this study. Dogs were divided into two groups according classical clinical signs and sorological test to CanL. Animals were considered infected based on indirect immunofluorescent assay and ELISA titration ≥ 1:40.  Group B (n = 15) composed by positive dogs to CanL from Zoonosis Control Center of Fortaleza (Ceará, Brazil) and group A (n = 12) was composed by dogs from private kennel that were serologically negative to L. infantum and had absence of clinical signs to CanL. Blood sample were collected for evaluation of hematological and biochemical parameters and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) enzymatic activity. Data were analyzed by Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient (P < 0.05). Total proteins (TP, mg/dL) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP, U/L) were increased (P < 0.05) on group B (8.2 ± 1.2; 165.4 ± 46.4) when compared to group A (6.5 ± 1.1; 109.1 ± 38.3), respectively. Hemoglobin (Hb; g/dL) and hematocrit (Hct; %) were decreased (P < 0.05) on Group B (14.7 ± 1.8; 48.2 ± 5.7) when compared to group A (16.5 ± 1.3; 52.1 ± 2.4), respectively. Group B presented CAT (U/g Hb) and GPx (mU/mg Hb) lower (189.4 ± 90.4; 3,609.6 ± 1,569.1) than group A (326.6 ± 104.5; 5,055.6 ±1,569.1), respectively (P < 0.001). Positive correlation was observed between RBC and CAT; however, it was not significant.Discussion: Organisms require a good defense system in order to revert the overproduction of free radicals and consequently the injuries caused by them. This is possible through the production of antioxidant agents, which act on oxidative prevention and on tissue and cellular regeneration, by taking the reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzymes in the frontline. Erythrocyte changes promoted by CanL suggest possible correlation between anemia and the appearance of clinical signs, which in many cases is not seen. Erythrocytes contain SOD, CAT and GPx enzymes, thus, changes in these cells will reflect on the activity of these enzymes. In our results only CAT showed positive correlation with erythrocyte count, however it was not significant. GPx activity was lower (P < 0.001) in infected dogs than control group. This result agrees with another study, which showed a decrease in GPx levels in CanL, although it was not significant. However, it was found a positive correlation (P < 0.001) between erythrocytes and GPx activity and between hemoglobin and GPx activity in animals with leishmaniasis. These results suggest that the reduction in detoxification activity can be related to the decrease in erythrocyte count and that the GPx activity depends on the control mechanism of the antioxidant system in CanL. Furthermore, this result could be associated with decrease of blood cell count in animals with CanL, once GPx is an erythrocyte enzyme, which plays an important role in hemoglobin protection against oxidative damage. This study was carried out in naturally infected dogs with L. infantum. In conclusion, CAT and GPx activities are relate to oxidative stress induced by L. infantum infection and can be used as biomarkers on CanL.

Influence of βS-globin haplotypes and hydroxyurea on tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in sickle cell anemia

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell anemia is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Hydroxyurea, by decreasing the polymerization of hemoglobin, reduces inflammatory states. The effect of the genetic polymorphisms of sickle cell patients on tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels with β-globin haplotypes and the use of hydroxyurea.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed of 67 patients with sickle cell anemia diagnosed at steady-state in a referral hospital in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. A group of 26 healthy individuals was used as control. βS-haplotype analysis was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction. The tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test. Laboratory data (complete blood count and fetal hemoglobin) and information regarding the use of hydroxyurea were obtained from medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using R software with the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Statistical significance was established for p-values < 0.05 for all analyses.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 35.48 years. Patients with sickle cell anemia had significantly higher tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels than controls (p-values < 0.0001). Tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were lower in sickle cell anemia patients who were receiving hydroxyurea treatment than those who were not (p-value = 0.1249). Sickle cell anemia patients with Bantu/n genotype had significantly higher levels than patients with the Bantu/Benin genotype (p-value = 0.0021).

CONCLUSION

In summary, βS-globin haplotypes, but not hydroxyurea therapy, have a role in modulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in sickle cell anemia adults at steady-state. Many previous studies have investigated prognosis and inflammatory states in sickle cell anemia patients, but the discovery that tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels vary according to the genetic polymorphism of the patient is a new finding.

The Effect of a Selective Inhibitor of Phosphodiesterase-9 on Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Cytotoxicity in Neutrophils from Patients with Sickle Cell Anaemia

The aim of the study was to investigate the possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of BAY 73-6691 on neutrophils from SCA patients. This study included 35 patients with a molecular diagnosis of SCA, whose neutrophils were isolated and treated with BAY 73-6691 at the concentrations 100, 10, 1.0 and 0.1 μg/mL. LDH release and MTT assays were performed to verify cell viability. To evaluate oxidative stress, the following parameters were determined by spectrophotometric assays: NO and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). As inflammatory markers, myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were evaluated by colorimetric assay and TNF-α by enzyme immunoassay. The results showed that neutrophils from SCA patients not treated with hydroxyurea (HU) had significantly lower NO levels and catalase and SOD activity, as well as significantly higher MDA, MPO and TNF-α levels when compared with neutrophils from SCA patients treated with HU and neutrophils from control group. Treatment of SCA neutrophils with BAY 73-6691 resulted in 94%, 200% and 168% increase in NOx levels, SOD and catalase activity, respectively. In addition, there was a reduction of approximately 46% and 45% in TNF-α and MPO levels, respectively. In SCAHU neutrophils, there was a 30% and 44% increase in NOx levels and SOD activity, respectively, and a 28% and 37% decrease in TNF-α and MPO levels, respectively. However, these effects were observed at cytotoxic doses only. The results of this study are original and demonstrate that inhibition of phosphodiesterase-9 in neutrophils from SCA patients with BAY 73-6691 was able to increase the NO bioavailability and attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation in neutrophils from patients not treated with HU.

Influence of disordered porous media on the anomalous properties of a simple water model

The thermodynamic, dynamic, and structural behavior of a water-like system confined in a matrix is analyzed for increasing confining geometries. The liquid is modeled by a two-dimensional associating lattice gas model that exhibits density and diffusion anomalies, similar to the anomalies present in liquid water. The matrix is a triangular lattice in which fixed obstacles impose restrictions to the occupation of the particles. We show that obstacles shorten all lines, including the phase coexistence, the critical and the anomalous lines. The inclusion of a very dense matrix not only suppresses the anomalies but also the liquid-liquid critical point.

Effect of different doses of zoledronic acid in establishing of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis

OBJECTIVES

To establish osteonecrosis of the jaws in rats treated with different doses of zoledronic acid (ZA).

METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n=6-7) received three consecutive weekly intravenous ZA infusions at doses of 0.04, 0.20 or 1.00mg/kg ZA or saline (control). Four weeks after the last administration, the animals were submitted to simple extraction of the lower left first molar. An additional dose of ZA was administered seven days later, and the animals were sacrificed 28 days after exodontia. Weight was measured and blood was collected weekly for analysis. The jaw was radiographically and microscopically examined along with the liver, spleen, kidney and stomach.

RESULTS

All ZA doses showed a higher radiolucent area than the control (p<0.0001), but the dose of 0.04mg/kg did not show BRONJ. Doses of 0.20 and 1.00mg/kg ZA showed histological evidence of bone necrosis (p=0.0004). Anaemia (p<0.0001, r(2)=0.8073) and leucocytosis (p<0.0001, r(2)=0.9699) are seen with an increase of lymphocytes (p<0.0001, r(2)=0.6431) and neutrophils and monocytes (p=0.0218, r(2)=0.8724) in all the animals treated with an increasing dose of ZA. Haemorrhage and ectasia were observed in the spleen (p=0.0004) and stomach (p=0.0168) in a dose-dependent manner, and the animals treated with ZA showed a lower rate of weight gain (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

We designed a bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw model that reproduces radiographic and histological parameters and mimics clinical alterations such as leucocytosis, anaemia and idiosyncratic inflammatory post infusion reactions.

Pattern of hemolysis parameters and association with fetal hemoglobin in sickle cell anemia patients in steady state

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of fetal hemoglobin (Hb F) on hemolysis biomarkers in sickle cell anemia patients.

Methods

Fifty adult sickle cell anemia patients were included in the study. All patients were taking hydroxyurea for at least six months and were followed at the outpatient clinic of a hospital in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. The control group consisted of 20 hemoglobin AA individuals. The reticulocyte count was performed by an automated methodology, lactate dehydrogenase and uric acid were measured by spectrophotometry and arginase I by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The presence of Hb S was detected by high-performance liquid chromatography. The level of significance was set for a p-value <0.05.

Results

A significant increase was observed in the reticulocyte count and lactate dehydrogenase, uric acid and arginase I levels in sickle cell anemia patients compared to the control group (p-value <0.05). Patients having Hb F levels greater than 10% showed a significant decrease in the reticulocyte count, arginase I and lactate dehydrogenase. A significant decrease was observed in arginase I levels in patients taking hydroxyurea at a dose greater than 20 mg/kg/day.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that sickle cell anemia patients have increases in the hemolysis biomarkers, lactate dehydrogenase, reticulocyte count, arginase I, uric acid and increases in Hb F can reduce the reticulocyte count and arginase I and lactate dehydrogenase levels.

Reliability of measurements made on scanned cast models using the 3 Shape R 700 scanner

OBJECTIVES

In dentistry, the latest technological advancements have been incorporated primarily into diagnostic tools such as virtual dental models. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of measurements made on digital cast models scanned in the 3 Shape R 700 scanner (3 Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) that uses a non-destructive laser beam to reproduce model surfaces so that the plaster model is not destroyed.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 26 cast models, and 6 linear measurements were made on the cast models and compared with the same measurements on digital models. The measurements assessed were: (1) distance between mandibular canines; (2) distance between mandibular molars; (3) distance between canine and maxillary molar; (4) buccal-lingual diameter of maxillary central incisor; (5) distance between two points of the incisive papillae of maxillary and mandibular central incisors; and (6) distance between the buccal surface of the maxillary central incisor and the buccal surface of the mandibular antagonist (overjet). The Student's t-test or Wilcoxon test was used at 5% and the Lin's concordance test at 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

The overjet measurement was the only one that showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). A high level of concordance was found for all measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

The digital models obtained from the 3 Shape R 700 scanner are reliable and can be considered an alternative to cast models for performing measurements and analyses in orthodontic practice.

Cytotoxicity and DNA damage in the neutrophils of patients with sickle cell anaemia treated with hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea (HU) is the most important advance in the treatment of sickle cell anaemia (SCA) for preventing complications and improving quality of life for patients. However, some aspects of treatment with HU remain unclear, including their effect on and potential toxicity to other blood cells such as neutrophils. This study used the measurement of Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) and Methyl ThiazolTetrazolium (MTT) and the comet assay to investigate the cytotoxicity and damage index (DI) of the DNA in the neutrophils of patients with SCA using HU.In the LDH and MTT assays, a cytoprotective effect was observed in the group of patients treated, as well as an absence of toxicity. When compared to patients without the treatment, the SS group (n=20, 13 women and 07 men, aged 18-69 years), and the group of healthy individuals (AA) used as a control group (n=52, 28 women and 24 men, aged 19-60 years), The SSHU group (n=21, 11 women and 10 men, aged 19-63 years) showed a significant reduction (p<0.001) in LDH activity and an increase in the percentage of viable cells by the MTT (p<0.001). However, the SSHU group presented significantly higher DI values (49.57±6.0 U/A) when compared to the AA group (7.43 ± 0,94U/A) and the SS group (22.73 ±5.58 U/A) (p<0.0001), especially when treated for longer periods (>20 months), demonstrating that despite the cytoprotective effects in terms of cell viability, the use of HU can induce DNA damage in neutrophils.

Impact of iron overload on interleukin-10 levels, biochemical parameters and oxidative stress in patients with sickle cell anemia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of iron overload on the profile of interleukin-10 levels, biochemical parameters and oxidative stress in sickle cell anemia patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed of 30 patients with molecular diagnosis of sickle cell anemia. Patients were stratified into two groups, according to the presence of iron overload: Iron overload (n = 15) and Non-iron overload (n = 15). Biochemical analyses were performed utilizing the Wiener CM 200 automatic analyzer. The interleukin-10 level was measured by capture ELISA using the BD OptEIAT commercial kit. Oxidative stress parameters were determined by spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism software (version 5.0) and statistical significance was established for p-values < 0.05 in all analyses.

RESULTS

Biochemical analysis revealed significant elevations in the levels of uric acid, triglycerides, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), urea and creatinine in the Iron overload Group compared to the Non-iron overload Group and significant decreases in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Ferritin levels correlated positively with uric acid concentrations (p-value < 0.05). The Iron overload Group showed lower interleukin-10 levels and catalase activity and higher nitrite and malondialdehyde levels compared with the Non-iron overload Group.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study are important to develop further consistent studies that evaluate the effect of iron overload on the inflammatory profile and oxidative stress of patients with sickle cell anemia.

The role of iron overload on oxidative stress in sickle cell anemia

Repeated blood transfusions in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) increases the risk of iron overload (IO), contributing to oxidative stress. Materials & methods: Blood samples of 15 SCA patients without IO (group 1) and 15 SCA patients with IO (group 2) and 30 healthy individuals were collected to investigate oxidative stress. IO was categorized using repeated measures of serum ferritin. The biomarkers evaluated were plasmatic malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite and erythrocyte catalase. Results: MDA and nitrite were higher in group 2 than in group 1 and the healthy group (p < 0.001 for MDA and nitrite). Catalase presented lower in group 2 than group 1 and the healthy group (p < 0.001). We obtained a positive correlation between ferritin and MDA (r = 0.40; p < 0.02), and between ferritin and nitrite (r = 0359; p = 0.023). Conclusion: The results demonstrated that IO is an important risk factor for enhanced oxidative stress in SCA.

Serum concentrations of nitrite and malondialdehyde as markers of oxidative stress in chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Background:

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a neoplasm characterized by clonal expansion of hematopoietic progenitor cells resulting from the (9:22)(q34,11) translocation. The tyrosine kinase abl fusion protein,the initial leukemogenic event in chronic myeloid leukemia, is constitutively activated thus inducing the production of reactive oxygen species. Of particular relevance is the fact that an increase in reactive oxygen species can facilitate genomic instability and may contribute to disease progression.

Objetive:

To evaluate oxidative stress by determining the levels of malondialdehyde and nitrite in chronic myeloid leukemia patients under treatment with 1st and 2nd generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors monitored at a referral hospital in Fortaleza, Ceará.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was performed of 64 male and female adults. Patients were stratified according to treatment. The levels of malondialdehyde and nitrite were determined by spectrophotometry. Statistical differences between groups were observed using the Student t-test and Fisher's exact test. The results are expressed as mean ± standard error of mean. The significance level was set for a p-value < 0.05 in all analyses.

Results:

The results show significantly higher mean concentrations of nitrite and malondialdehyde in chronic myeloid leukemia patients using second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors compared to patients on imatinib. Conclusion: It follows that chronic myeloid leukemia patients present higher oxidative activity and that the increases in oxidative damage markers can indicate resistance to 1st generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Ion fluxes through nanopores and transmembrane channels

We introduce an implicit solvent Molecular Dynamics approach for calculating ionic fluxes through narrow nanopores and transmembrane channels. The method relies on a dual-control-volume grand-canonical molecular dynamics (DCV-GCMD) simulation and the analytical solution for the electrostatic potential inside a cylindrical nanopore recently obtained by Levin [Europhys. Lett. 76, 163 (2006)]. The theory is used to calculate the ionic fluxes through an artificial transmembrane channel which mimics the antibacterial gramicidin A channel. Both current-voltage and current-concentration relations are calculated under various experimental conditions. We show that our results are comparable to the characteristics associated to the gramicidin A pore, especially the existence of two binding sites inside the pore and the observed saturation in the current-concentration profiles.

cDNA cloning, expression and characterization of a Boophilus microplus paramyosin

The tick Boophilus microplus is a 1-host tick that causes important losses to bovine herds, and protective antigens are being investigated in order to develop vaccines that avoid the use of acaricides. Paramyosins are multi-functional invertebrate muscle proteins, whose roles may include host immunomodulation, and seem to be a prominent candidate in a schistosomiasis vaccine. We report here the cloning, expression and characterization of a B. microplus paramyosin (BmPRM). Sequence analysis of the full length coding sequence cDNA shows high identity to other arthropod paramyosin sequences, and the predicted molecular weight, pI and secondary structure are consistent with a typical paramyosin. Western-blot expression analysis indicates the presence of BmPRM in all tissues and developmental stages tested, but not in saliva. The recombinant protein (rBmPRM) was shown to bind both IgG and collagen. Possible implications of these activities with host evasion mechanisms are discussed.

Dredging and disposal of fine sediments in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Dredging is employed quite frequently in the state of Rio de Janeiro, especially for the installation and upkeep of commercial ports and rehabilitation of the hydraulic section of silted bodies of water. Until recently, all dredged material with no economic use was destined for marine disposal or stored at the edge of the water body. Since the 1990s, however, a new approach has been adopted for dredging as a result of pressure from the environmental organisations, encouraging closer interaction in Rio de Janeiro between the local and state public authorities and the universities on issues relating to licensing of this kind of activity. The recent experiments of the Civil and Ocean Engineering Programs of COPPE-UFRJ (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro) described herein are included in this context. The state of Rio de Janeiro has three bays, several coastal lagoon systems and a number of small and medium sized rivers in or close to urban areas, with a gentle slope as they near the sea. This is, then, a region highly susceptible to silting processes of water bodies, and therefore, to maintenance and/or environmental rehabilitation. As discussed in the article, fine and almost always organic sediments prevail, which is a considerable obstacle to the end disposal and possibility of reuse.

Criticality in confined ionic fluids

A theory of a confined two-dimensional electrolyte is presented. The positive and negative ions, interacting by a 1/r potential, are constrained to move on an interface separating two solvents with dielectric constants epsilon(1) and epsilon(2). It is shown that the Debye-Hückel type of theory predicts that this two-dimensional Coulomb fluid should undergo a phase separation into a coexisting liquid (high-density) and gas (low-density) phases. We argue, however, that the formation of polymerlike chains of alternating positive and negative ions can prevent this phase transition from taking place.

[Approach in acute respiratory tract disfunction]

OBJECTIVE: To present a review of the current diagnostic and therapeutic approach to the major conditions found in pediatric emergency department, which course with acute respiratory tract disfunction, stressing some clinical and epidemiological characteristics that are useful to the pediatrician in the differential diagnosis.METHODS: Outstanding articles related to the subject were selected after literature review of the last 20 years, using Md Consult, Medline and Lilacs databases.RESULTS: Many diseases can produce respiratory disfunction. Taking into account only those with acute symptoms, infectious and/or inflammatory causes predominate. History, examination findings and at least a chest X-ray are almost always sufficient for the diagnosis, but, sometimes other complimentary tests are necessary.CONCLUSIONS: If not properly treated, acute respiratory emergencies can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Any pediatrician taking part in an emergency team has to obtain respiratory management skills and knowledge concerning distinctive aspects and severity estimation of the several respiratory diseases.

Free fatty acid mobilization in rats following intracerebroventricular norepinephrine

The possible involvement of central synaptic transmitters in lipomobilization was investigated by injecting norepinephrine or carbachol into the cerebrospinal fluid of conscious, unrestrained rats. Intracerebroventricular administration of minute amounts of norepinephrine (25-400 nmol in 5 microliters) induced a rapid increase in plasma free fatty acids (FFA) and glycerol. Small increases in blood sugar levels were induced only by the higher doses of norepinephrine. Plasma FFA response to the catecholamine was dose related in the range of 25-100 nmol of hormone. Previous intraventricular administration of propranolol, but not of phentolamine, completely blocked the lipomobilzing effect of intraventricular norepinephrine. In contrast to norepinephrine, carbachol (27 or 54 nmol) injected intraventricularly did not affect plasma FFA or glycerol levels, but markedly increased blood sugar levels. Increase of plasma FFA and glycerol by intraventricular norepinephrine and blockade of the response by propranolol suggest the involvement of a beta-adrenergic mechanism in the centrally mediated lipolysis activation. On the basis of these and previous results, it is hypothesized that central beta-adrenergic synapses relay impulses generated in receptors specifically involved in lipomobilization to the sympathetic fibers of adipose tissue.