Rural economic development can differ intensely among municipalities within the same region. The economic activity disparity among them makes public policy actions difficult. It is possible to find highly efficient an...Rural economic development can differ intensely among municipalities within the same region. The economic activity disparity among them makes public policy actions difficult. It is possible to find highly efficient and globally competitive producers, as well as those producing for subsistence, in the same area. This disparity stands out the total productivity importance of the factors of production in the agricultural sector, especially the productivity of the land. The way the land is occupied in the rural area, namely crops, pastures, reforestation and other areas, can be indicative of the productivity of the land factor and the value of agricultural production. The products that compose the value of the agricultural production present different land occupation through their own productive characteristic. The main objective of this work was to measure the association between the production value of groups of agricultural products and the diversified uses of the rural area in the production of the municipalities in the state of Sao Paulo. In this research, 52 agricultural products produced in 2008 were used, grouped in five production value variables and other nine variables of the land use in production of the municipalities in Sao Paulo. The multivariate statistical technique of canonical correlation was used to measure the association between the product variables group of the production value with the land use group in agricultural activities. It was concluded that there is a strong correlation （94.3%） in the first pair of canonical variables, representing the production value and the land use, allowing groups of municipalities to be formed at different stages of development in agricultural production. It can be verified that 61.8% of the municipalities in the state were below the average in the production group and land use and that only 4.8% were above average for the production variables group and with values below the average in land use. The stages of agricultural development in the municipalities of Sao Paulo and the association between the production and use of the area can contribute to identify the direction of public policies to increase the productivity of the agricultural sector.展开更多
Sugarcane crops have undergone several changes with the intensification of agricultural machinery in Brazil in the last years.This occurs,mainly,due to the transfer of the semi-mechanized system to the mechanized one ...Sugarcane crops have undergone several changes with the intensification of agricultural machinery in Brazil in the last years.This occurs,mainly,due to the transfer of the semi-mechanized system to the mechanized one during harvest operations.Thus,studies are needed on the optimization of sugarcane production in relation to mechanized processes,since it is necessary to verify the adaptability of sugarcane varieties to the mechanization of the plantation.This study aimed to develop and apply a mathematical model of optimization to select sugarcane varieties that maximize production and meet the quality standards required by the industry for sugar and fiber contents.The data were collected in a sugarcane mill located in the interior of S?o Paulo state.The result obtained by the optimization process evinced an increase of 16.65%when compared to the productivity of the initial scenario.展开更多
Background:Near-infrared spectroscopy(NIRS)technology has allowed for the measurement of cerebral and skeletal muscle oxygenation simultaneously during exercise.Since this technology has been growing and is now succes...Background:Near-infrared spectroscopy(NIRS)technology has allowed for the measurement of cerebral and skeletal muscle oxygenation simultaneously during exercise.Since this technology has been growing and is now successfully used in laboratory and sports settings,this systematic review aimed to synthesize the evidence and enhance an integrative understanding of bloodflow adjustments and oxygen(O_(2))changes(i.e.,the balance between O_(2) delivery and O_(2) consumption)within the cerebral and muscle systems during exercise.Methods:A systematic review was conducted using PubMed,Embase,Scopus,and Web of Science databases to search for relevant studies that simultaneously investigated cerebral and muscle hemodynamic changes using the near-infrared spectroscopy system during exercise.This review considered manuscripts written in English and available before February 9,2023.Each step of screening involved evaluation by 2 inde-pendent authors,with disagreements resolved by a third author.The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies.Results:Twenty studies were included,of which 80%had good methodological quality,and involved 290 young or middle-aged adults.Different types of exercises were used to assess cerebral and muscle hemodynamic changes,such as cycling(n=11),treadmill(n=1),knee extension(n=5),isometric contraction of biceps brachii(n=3),and duet swim routines(n=1).The cerebral hemodynamics anal-ysis was focused on the frontal cortex(n=20),while in the muscle,the analysis involved vastus lateralis(n=18),gastrocnemius(n=3),biceps brachii(n=5),deltoid(n=1),and intercostal muscle(n=1).Overall,muscle deoxygenation increases during exercise,reaching a plateau in voluntary exhaustion,while in the brain,oxyhemoglobin concentration increases with exercise intensity,reaching a plateau or declining at the exhaustion point.Conclusion:Muscle and cerebral oxygenation respond differently to exercise,with muscle increasing O_(2) utilization and cerebral tissue increasing O_(2) delivery during exercise.However,at the exhaustion point,both muscle and cerebral oxygenation become compromised.This is characterized by a reduction in bloodflow and a decrease in O_(2) extraction in the muscle,while in the brain,oxygenation reaches a plateau or decline,potentially resulting in motor failure during exercise.展开更多
Background:Impairments in hamstring strength,flexibility,and morphology have been associated with altered knee biomechanics,pain,and function.Determining the presence of these impairments in individuals with gradual-o...Background:Impairments in hamstring strength,flexibility,and morphology have been associated with altered knee biomechanics,pain,and function.Determining the presence of these impairments in individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders is important and may indicate targets for assessment and rehabilitation.This systematic review aimed to synthesize the literature to determine the presence of impairments in hamstring strength,flexibility,and morphology in individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders.Methods:Five databases(MEDLINE,Embase,CINAHL,SPORTDiscus,and Web of Science)were searched from inception to September 2022.Only studies comparing hamstring outcomes(e.g.,strength,flexibility,and/or morphology)between individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders and their unaffected limbs or pain-free controls were included.Meta-analyses for each knee disorder were performed.Outcome-level certainty was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment,Development,and Evaluation,and evidence gap maps were created.Results:Seventy-nine studies across 4 different gradual-onset knee disorders(i.e.,knee osteoarthritis(OA),patellofemoral pain(PFP),chondromalacia patellae,and patellar tendinopathy)were included.Individuals with knee OA presented with reduced hamstring strength compared to pain-free controls during isometric(standard mean difference(SMD)=-0.76,95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.32 to-0.21)and concentric contractions(SMD=-0.97,95%CI:-1.49 to-0.45).Individuals with PFP presented with reduced hamstring strength compared to painfree controls during isometric(SMD=-0.48,95%CI:-0.82 to-0.14),concentric(SMD=-1.07,95%CI:-2.08 to-0.06),and eccentric contractions(SMD=-0.59,95%CI:-0.97 to-0.21).No differences were observed in individuals with patellar tendinopathy.Individuals with PFP presented with reduced hamstring flexibility when compared to pain-free controls(SMD=-0.76,95%CI:-1.15 to-0.36).Evidence gap maps identified insufficient evidence for chondromalacia patellae and hamstring morphology across all gradual-onset knee disorders.Conclusion:Our findings suggest that assessing and targeting impairments in hamstring strength and flexibility during rehabilitation may be recommended for individuals with knee OA or PFP.展开更多
In this editorial,we comment on the article by Marangoni et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology 2023;29:5618-5629,about“Diet as an epigenetic factor in inflammatory bowel disease...In this editorial,we comment on the article by Marangoni et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology 2023;29:5618-5629,about“Diet as an epigenetic factor in inflammatory bowel disease”.The authors emphasized the role of diet,especially the interaction with genetics,in promoting the inflam-matory process in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)patients,focusing on DNA methylation,histone modifications,and the influence of microRNAs.In this editorial,we explore the interaction between genetics,gut microbiota,and diet,in an only way.Furthermore,we provided dietary recommendations for patients with IBD.The Western diet,characterized by a low fiber content and deficiency the micronutrients,impacts short-chain fatty acids production and may be related to the pathogenesis of IBD.On the other hand,the consumption of the Mediter-ranean diet and dietary fibers are associated with reduced risk of IBD flares,particularly in Crohn’s disease(CD)patients.According to the dietary guidance from the International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases(IOIBD),the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables while reducing the consumption of saturated,trans,dairy fat,additives,processed foods rich in maltodextrins,and artificial sweeteners containing sucralose or saccharine is recommended to CD patients.For patients with ulcerative colitis,the IOIBD recommends the increased intake of natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids and follows the same restrictive recommendations aimed at CD patients,with the possible inclusion of red meats.In conclusion,IBD is a complex and hetero-geneous disease,and future studies are needed to elucidate the influence of epigenetics on diet and microbiota in IBD patients.展开更多
The high rates of depression,burnout,and increased risk of suicide among medical students,residents,and physicians in comparison with other careers signal a mental health crisis within our profession.We contend that t...The high rates of depression,burnout,and increased risk of suicide among medical students,residents,and physicians in comparison with other careers signal a mental health crisis within our profession.We contend that this crisis coupled with the inadequate acquisition of interpersonal skills during medical education results from the interaction between a challenging environment and the mental capital of individuals.Additionally,we posit that mindfulness-based practices are instrumental for the development of major components of mental capital,such as resilience,flexibility of mind,and learning skills,while also serving as a pathway to enhance empathy,compassion,self-awareness,conflict resolution,and relational abilities.Importantly,the evidence base supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions has been increasing over the years,and a growing number of medical schools have already integrated mindfulness into their curricula.While we acknowledge that mindfulness is not a panacea for all educational and mental health problems in this field,we argue that there is currently an unprecedented opportunity to gather momentum,spread and study mindfulness-based programs in medical schools around the world as a way to address some longstanding shortcomings of the medical profession and the health and educational systems upon which it is rooted.展开更多
Effective calcium(Ca)management is crucial for optimizing oil palm cultivation and enhancing crop yield.This study aimed to gain insights into the dynamics of Ca concentration,accumulation,exportation,immobilization,a...Effective calcium(Ca)management is crucial for optimizing oil palm cultivation and enhancing crop yield.This study aimed to gain insights into the dynamics of Ca concentration,accumulation,exportation,immobilization,and recycling in various oil palm organs relative to plant age.The experiment was conducted at the Agropalma enterprise site in the northeastern region of Para State,Brazil,evaluating seven plant age treatments:2,3,4,5,6,7,and 8 years old.Employing a completely randomized design with four replications.The results demonstrated an age-related increase in Ca concentration in petioles,rachis,arrows,male inflorescences,peduncles,and fruits.Furthermore,Ca accumulation exhibited an upward trend in all organs with progressing plant age.Notably,the study revealed an enhanced Ca use efficiency across all plant organs in correlation with the age of oil palm cultivation.These findings underscore the dynamic nutritional demands of oil palm,influencing Ca immobilization,cycling,and export throughout its developmental stages.展开更多
Rotating systems have many applications in wide-ranging industrial contexts. The breakdown of this equipment results in economic wastes and leads to dangerous situations. To avoid such problems is very important, and ...Rotating systems have many applications in wide-ranging industrial contexts. The breakdown of this equipment results in economic wastes and leads to dangerous situations. To avoid such problems is very important, and it can be done through tools that inform about the existence of faults, as well as, about their progress in time. A review of the modeling process used for rotor-support-structure shows that the finite element method is the maj or method employed. In this paper, with the aid of well defined theoretical models, obtained using the finite element technique, and the state observer method for the identification and location of faults, it is possible to monitor the parameters of a rotor-support-structure system, including the foundation effects. In order to improve safety, these parameters must be supervised in case of the occurrence of failures or faults. The state observers are designed using Linear Matrix Inequalities （LMIs）. Finally, experimental results （using for this a rotation system in the mechanical vibrations laboratory at Ilha Solteira＇s Mechanical Engineering Department） demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology developed.展开更多
Zeyheria tuberculosa(Vell.)Bureau ex Verl.is among the Brazilian flora threatened with extinction.It has high-quality wood and can be used to recover herbicidecontaminated areas.However,abiotic stresses can harm seed ...Zeyheria tuberculosa(Vell.)Bureau ex Verl.is among the Brazilian flora threatened with extinction.It has high-quality wood and can be used to recover herbicidecontaminated areas.However,abiotic stresses can harm seed germination and seedling development under adverse conditions and need to be understood to improve autochthonous or indigenous biodiversity conservation and strengthen reforestation projects.This study evaluated the effects of temperature,water and saline stress on Z.tuberculosa seed germination and water stress on seedling growth.Three laboratory experiments evaluated germination under:(1)different temperatures(20,25,30,35 and 40℃);(2)different water potentials simulated with polyethylene glycol(PEG6000)at 25 and 30℃;and,(3)different osmotic potentials simulated with NaCl at 25 and 30℃.In addition,a greenhouse experiment subjected seedlings to five water regimes(20%,35%,50%,65%and 80%of maximum substrate water holding capacity).In the laboratory,seedling biometry and germination were evaluated,while physiological and morphological parameters were assessed in the greenhouse.Physiological potential of seeds increased at 25 and 30℃.Germination and vigor decreased as water and saline stresses increased.Germination tolerance thresholds for water and salt stresses were-0.6 and-0.4 MPa,respectively.In the greenhouse,the most restrictive water regimes reduced seedling physiological and morphological parameters.Seedling development was compromised at moisture levels below50%field capacity.展开更多
Background:We compared body mass index(BMI),body fat,and skeletal muscle mass between(1) a mixed-sex nonathletic cohort of people with patellofemoral pain(PFP) and pain-free people,and(2) a nonathletic cohort of peopl...Background:We compared body mass index(BMI),body fat,and skeletal muscle mass between(1) a mixed-sex nonathletic cohort of people with patellofemoral pain(PFP) and pain-free people,and(2) a nonathletic cohort of people with PFP and pain-free people subgrouped by sex(i.e.,men and women with PFP vs.pain-free men and women).Methods:This cross-sectional study included 114 people with PFP(71 women,43 men) and 54 pain-free controls(32 women,22 men).All participants attended a single testing session to assess body composition measures,which included BMI,percentage of body fat(%BFBioimpedance),and skeletal muscle mass(both assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis),and percentage of body fat(%BFskinfoid)(assessed by skinfold caliper analysis).A one-way univariate analysis of covariance(age and physical activity levels as covariates) was used to compare body composition measures between groups(i.e.,PFP vs.pain-free group;women with PFP vs.pain-free women;men with PFP vs.pain-free men).Results:Women with PFP presented significantly higher BMI,%BFBiompedance,and %BFSkinfold,and lower skeletal muscle mass compared to pain-free women(p≤0.04;effect size:-0.47 to 0.85).Men with PFP and men and women combined had no differences in BMI,%BFBioimpedance,%BFSkinfold,and skeletal muscle mass compared to their respective pain-free groups(p> 0.05).Conclusion:Our findings indicate that BMI and body composition measures should be considered as part of the evaluation and management of people with PFP,especially in women,who have demonstrated higher BMI and body fat and lower skeletal muscle mass compared to pain-free controls.Future studies should not assess body composition measures in a mixed-sex population without distinguishing men participants from women participants.展开更多
Purpose:This study aimed to(a)investigate the proportion of overweight/obesity in a cohort of young adults with patellofemoral pain(PFP)and(b)explore the association of body mass index(BMI),body fat,and lean mass with...Purpose:This study aimed to(a)investigate the proportion of overweight/obesity in a cohort of young adults with patellofemoral pain(PFP)and(b)explore the association of body mass index(BMI),body fat,and lean mass with functional capacity and hip and knee strength in people with PFP.Methods:We included a mixed-sex sample of young adults(18-35 years old)with PFP(n=100).Measurements for BMI,percentage of body fat,and lean mass(assessed by bioelectrical impedance)were obtained.Functional capacity was assessed by the Anterior Knee Pain Scale,plank test,and single-leg hop test.Strength of the knee extensors,knee flexors,and hip abductors was evaluated isometrically using an isokinetic dynamometer.The proportion of overweight/obesity was calculated based on BMI.The association between BMI,body fat,and lean mass and functional capacity and strength was investigated using partial correlations,followed by hierarchical regression analysis,adjusted for covariates(sex,bilateral pain,and current pain level).Results:A total of 38%of our cohort had their BMI categorized as overweight/obese.Higher BMI was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.06-0.12,p<0.001)and with knee flexion strength only(ΔR^(2)=0.04,p=0.030).Higher body fat was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.05-0.15,p≤0.015)and reduced strength(ΔR^(2)=0.15-0.23,p<0.001).Lower lean mass was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.04-0.13,p≤0.032)and reduced strength(ΔR^(2)=0.29-0.31,p<0.001).Conclusion:BMI,body fat,and lean mass should be considered in the assessment and management of young people with PFP because it may be detrimental to function and strength.展开更多
The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tracts of humans,living in symbiosis with the host.Dysbiosis,characterized by an imbalance between the beneficial and opportunisti...The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tracts of humans,living in symbiosis with the host.Dysbiosis,characterized by an imbalance between the beneficial and opportunistic gut microbiota,is associated with several gastrointestinal disorders,such as irritable bowel syndrome(IBS);inflammatory bowel disease(IBD),represented by ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease;and colorectal cancer(CRC).Dysbiosis can disrupt the mucosal barrier,resulting in perpetuation of inflammation and carcinogenesis.The increase in some specific groups of harmful bacteria,such as Escherichia coli(E.coli)and enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis(ETBF),has been associated with chronic tissue inflammation and the release of pro-inflammatory and carcinogenic mediators,increasing the chance of developing CRC,following the inflammationdysplasia-cancer sequence in IBD patients.Therefore,the aim of the present review was to analyze the correlation between changes in the gut microbiota and the development and maintenance of IBD,CRC,and IBD-associated CRC.Patients with IBD and CRC have shown reduced bacterial diversity and abundance compared to healthy individuals,with enrichment of Firmicute sand Bacteroidetes.Specific bacteria are also associated with the onset and progression of CRC,such as Fusobacterium nucleatum,E.coli,Enterococcus faecalis,Streptococcus gallolyticus,and ETBF.Future research can evaluate the advantages of modulating the gut microbiota as preventive measures in CRC high-risk patients,directly affecting the prognosis of the disease and the quality of life of patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a ...BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a mostly unknown etiology.The incidence and prevalence of IBD are continually increasing,indicating the need for further studies to investigate the genetic determinants of these diseases.Since microRNAs(miRNAs)regulate protein translation via complementary binding to mRNA,discovering differentially expressed miRNAs(DE)in UC or CD patients could be important for diagnostic biomarker identification,assisting in the appropriate disease differentiation progressing the understanding of IBD pathogenesis.AIM To determine the miRNA expression profile in UC and CD patients and the potential pathophysiological contributions of differentially expressed miRNA.METHODS A total of 20 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded colonic samples were collected from the Pathology Department of Botucatu Medical School at São Paulo State University(Unesp).The diagnosis of UC or CD was based on clinical,endoscopic,radiologic,and histological criteria and confirmed by histopathological analysis at the time of selection.The TaqMan™Array Human MicroRNA A+B Cards Set v3.0(Applied Biosystems™)platform was used to analyze 754 miRNAs.Targets of DE-miRNAs were predicted using miRNA Data Integration Portal(mirDIP)and the miRNA Target Interaction database(MiRTarBase).All statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism software.Parametric and nonparametric data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests,respectively.RESULTS The results showed that of the 754 miRNAs that were initially evaluated,643 miRNAs were found to be expressed in at least five of the patients who were diagnosed with either CD or UC;the remaining 111 miRNAs were not considered to be expressed in these patients.The expression levels of 28 miRNAs were significantly different between the CD and UC patients(P≤0.05);13 miRNAs demonstrated a fold-change in expression level greater than 1.Five miRNAs with a downregulated expression were selected for enrichment analysis.The miRNAs whose expression levels were significantly lower in UC patients than in CD patients were enriched in certain signaling pathways that were mostly correlated with cancer-related processes and respective biomarkers.CONCLUSION MiRNAs could be used to differentiate UC from CD,and differently expressed miRNAs could help explain the distinct pathophysiology of each disease.展开更多
Air pollution causes deleterious effects on human health with aerosols being among the most polluting agents.The objective of this work is the characterization of the PM2.5 and PM10 aerosol mass in the atmosphere.The ...Air pollution causes deleterious effects on human health with aerosols being among the most polluting agents.The objective of this work is the characterization of the PM2.5 and PM10 aerosol mass in the atmosphere.The methods of analysis include WD-XRF and EDS.Data were correlated with meteorological information and air mass trajectories(model HYSPLIT)by multivariate analysis.A morphological structural analysis was also carried out to identify the probable sources of atmospheric aerosols in the city of Sao Jose do Rio Preto,Brazil.The mean mass concentration values obtained were 24.54 μg/m^3 for PM10,above the WHO annual standard value of 20 μg/m^3 and 10.88 μg/m^3 for PM2.5 whose WHO recommended limit is10 μg/m^3.WD-XRF analysis of the samples revealed Si and Al as major components of the coarse fraction.In the fine fraction,the major elements were Al and S.The SEM-FEG characterization allowed identifying the morphology of the particles in agglomerates,ellipsoids and filaments in the PM10,besides spherical in the PM2.5.The analysis by EDS corroborated WD-XRF results,identifying the crustal elements,aluminosilicates and elements of anthropogenic origin in the coarse fraction.For the fine fraction crustal elements were also identified;aluminosilicates,black carbon and spherical particles(C and O) originating from combustion processes were predominant.The use of multivariate analysis to correlate air mass trajectories with the results of the morpho-structural characterization of the particulate matter allowed confirmation of the complex composition of the particles resulting from the combination of both local and long-distance sources.展开更多
Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. An estimated 150 million individuals worldwide have been chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus(HCV). H...Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. An estimated 150 million individuals worldwide have been chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus(HCV). Hepatitis C shows significant genetic variation in the global population, due to the high rate of viral RNA mutation. There are six variants of the virus(HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6), with 15 recorded subtypes that vary in prevalence across different regions of the world. A variety of devices are used to diagnose hepatitis C, including HCV antibody test, HCV viral load test, HCV genotype test and liver biopsy. Rapid, inexpensive, sensitive, and robust analytical devices are therefore essential for effective diagnosis and monitoring of disease treatment. This review provides an overview of current electrochemical immunosensor and genosensortechnologies employed in HCV detection.There are a limited number of publications showing electrochemical biosensors being used for the detection of HCV.Due to their simplicity,specificity,and reliability,electrochemical biosensor devices have potential clinical applications in several viral infections.展开更多
AIM To evaluate the sex-specific effects of a hydroalcoholic extract from Eugenia punicifolia(HEEP) leaves on gastric ulcer healing.METHODS In this rat study involving males, intact(cycling) females, and ovariectomize...AIM To evaluate the sex-specific effects of a hydroalcoholic extract from Eugenia punicifolia(HEEP) leaves on gastric ulcer healing.METHODS In this rat study involving males, intact(cycling) females, and ovariectomized females, gastric ulcers were induced using acetic acid. A vehicle, lansoprazole, or HEEP was administered for 14 d after ulcer induction. Body weight was monitored throughout the treatment period. At the end of treatment, the rats were euthanized and the following in vivo and in vitro investigations were performed: macroscopic examination of the lesion area and organ weights, biochemical analysis, zymography, and evaluation of protein expression levels. Additionally, the concentration-dependent effect of HEEP was evaluated in terms of subacute toxicity and cytotoxicity.RESULTS Compared to the vehicle, HEEP demonstrated a great healing capacity by substantially reducing the ulcerative lesion area in males(52.44%), intact females(85.22%), and ovariectomized females(65.47%), confirming that HEEP accelerates the healing of acetic acidinduced gastric lesions and suggesting that this effect is modulated by female sex hormones. The antiulcer effect of HEEP was mediated by prostaglandin E2 only in male rats. Overall, the beneficial effect of HEEP was the highest in intact females. Notably, HEEP promoted the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor(intact vs ovariectomized females) and decreased the expression of Caspase-8 and Bcl-2(intact female vs male or ovariectomized female). Additionally, HEEP enhanced fibroblast proliferation and migration into a wounded area in vitro, confirming its healing effect. Finally, no sign of subacute toxicity or cytotoxicity of HEEP was observed.CONCLUSION In gastric ulcers, HEEP-induced healing(modulated by female sex hormones; in males, mediated by prostaglandin) involves extracellular matrix remodeling, with gastric mucosa cell proliferation and migration.展开更多
Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vasc...Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vascular homeostasis.Moreover,they have been implicated in a series of pathologies(e.g.,hypersensitivity reactions,tumors,and inflammatory disorders).In this review,we propose that this cell could be a relevant therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis,which is a central nervous system degenerative disease.To support this proposition,we describe the general biological properties of mast cells,their contribution to innate and specific immunity,and the participation of mast cells in the various stages of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development.The final part of this review is dedicated to an overview of the available mast cells immunomodulatory drugs and their activity on multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,including our own experience related to the effect of ketotifen fumarate on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis evolution.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chronic inflammation due to Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection promotes gastric carcinogenesis.Tumour necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),a key mediator of inflammation,induces cell survival or apoptosis by bind...BACKGROUND Chronic inflammation due to Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection promotes gastric carcinogenesis.Tumour necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),a key mediator of inflammation,induces cell survival or apoptosis by binding to two receptors(TNFR1 and TNFR2).TNFR1 can induce both survival and apoptosis,while TNFR2 results only in cell survival.The dysregulation of these processes may contribute to carcinogenesis.AIM To evaluate the effects of TNFR1 and TNFR2 downregulation in AGS cells treated with H.pylori extract on the TNF-αpathway.METHODS AGS cell lines containing TNFR1 and TNFR2 receptors downregulated by specific shRNAs and nonsilenced AGS cells were treated with H.pylori extract for 6 h.Subsequently,quantitative polymerase chain reaction with TaqMan®assays was used for the relative quantification of the mRNAs(TNFA,TNFR1,TNFR2,TRADD,TRAF2,CFLIP,NFKB1,NFKB2,CASP8,CASP3)and miRNAs(miR-19a,miR-34a,miR-103a,miR-130a,miR-181c)related to the TNF-αsignalling pathway.Flow cytometry was employed for cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assays.RESULTS In nonsilenced AGS cells,H.pylori extract treatment increased the expression of genes involved in cell survival and inhibited both apoptosis(NFKB1,NFKB2 and CFLIP)and the TNFR1 receptor.TNFR1 downregulation significantly decreased the expression of the TRADD and CFLIP genes,although no change was observed in the cellular process or miRNA expression.In contrast,TNFR2 downregulation decreased the expression of the TRADD and TRAF2 genes,which are both important downstream mediators of the TNFR1-mediated pathway,as well as that of the NFKB1 and CFLIP genes,while upregulating the expression of miR-19a and miR-34a.Consequently,a reduction in the number of cells in the G0/G1 phase and an increase in the number of cells in the S phase were observed,as well as the promotion of early apoptosis.CONCLUSION Our findings mainly highlight the important role of TNFR2 in the TNF-αpathway in gastric cancer,indicating that silencing it can reduce the expression of survival and anti-apoptotic genes.展开更多
The forest investment projects,analyzed through the application of simulation techniques,allow measuring more accurately the benefits or losses,considering the systemic uncertainties related to forest plantation.In th...The forest investment projects,analyzed through the application of simulation techniques,allow measuring more accurately the benefits or losses,considering the systemic uncertainties related to forest plantation.In this perspective,the objective of this study was to identify the relative importance of sources of uncertainties in determining the net present value(NPV)of planting of Ochroma pyramidale on a forested property located in the state of S?o Paulo,Brazil.Thus,it assigns probability distributions to the parameters with uncertainties and applies the Monte Carlo technique to obtain the stochastic behavior of the NPV,of the modified internal rate of return(MIRR)and the profitability index(PI).The probabilistic results of the quantitative methods analyzed allowed us to conclude that for the planting O.pyramidale,with 5-year cutting age,indicated economic profitability.In addition,there is a probability that 84.6%of the project will add economic value to the invested capital.展开更多
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD)have been associated with a low quality of life(QoL)and a negative impact on work productivity compared to the general population.Information about disease control,patient-re...BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD)have been associated with a low quality of life(QoL)and a negative impact on work productivity compared to the general population.Information about disease control,patient-reported outcomes(PROs),treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources is relevant to optimizing IBD management.AIM To describe QoL and work productivity and activity impairment(WPAI),treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources among IBD patients in Brazil.METHODS A multicenter cross-sectional study included adult outpatients who were previously diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease(CD)or ulcerative colitis(UC).At enrolment,active CD and UC were defined as having a Harvey Bradshaw Index≥8 or a CD Activity Index≥220 or calprotectin>200μg/g or previous colonoscopy results suggestive of inadequate control(per investigator criteria)and a 9-point partial Mayo score≥5,respectively.The PRO assessment included the QoL questionnaires SF-36 and EQ-5D-5L,the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire(IBDQ),and the WPAI questionnaire.Information about healthcare resources and treatment during the previous 3 years was collected from medical records.Chi-square,Fisher’s exact and Student’s t-/Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare PROs,treatment patterns and the use of healthcare resources by disease activity(α=0.05).RESULTS Of the 407 patients in this study(CD/UC:64.9%/35.1%,mean age 42.9/45.9 years,54.2%/56.6%female,38.3%/37.1%employed),44.7%/25.2%presented moderate-to-severe CD/UC activity,respectively,at baseline.Expressed in median values for CD/UC,respectively,the SF-36 physical component was 46.6/44.7 and the mental component was 45.2/44.2,the EQ-visual analog scale score was 80.0/70.0,and the IBDQ overall score was 164.0/165.0.Moderate to severe activity,female gender,being unemployed,a lower educational level and lower income were associated with lower QoL(P<0.05).Median work productivity impairment was 20%and 5%for CD and UC patients,respectively,and activity impairment was 30%,the latter being higher among patients with moderate to severe disease activity compared to patients with mild or no disease activity(75.0%vs 10.0%,P<0.001).For CD/UC patients,respectively,25.4%/2.8%had at least one surgery,38.3%/19.6%were hospitalized,and 70.7%/77.6%changed IBD treatment at least once during the last 3 years.The most common treatments at baseline were biologics(75.3%)and immunosuppressants(70.9%)for CD patients and 5-ASA compounds(77.5%)for UC patients.CONCLUSION Moderate to severe IBD activity,especially among CD patients,is associated with a substantial impact on QoL,work productivity impairment and an increased number of IBD surgeries and hospitalizations in Brazil.展开更多
文摘Rural economic development can differ intensely among municipalities within the same region. The economic activity disparity among them makes public policy actions difficult. It is possible to find highly efficient and globally competitive producers, as well as those producing for subsistence, in the same area. This disparity stands out the total productivity importance of the factors of production in the agricultural sector, especially the productivity of the land. The way the land is occupied in the rural area, namely crops, pastures, reforestation and other areas, can be indicative of the productivity of the land factor and the value of agricultural production. The products that compose the value of the agricultural production present different land occupation through their own productive characteristic. The main objective of this work was to measure the association between the production value of groups of agricultural products and the diversified uses of the rural area in the production of the municipalities in the state of Sao Paulo. In this research, 52 agricultural products produced in 2008 were used, grouped in five production value variables and other nine variables of the land use in production of the municipalities in Sao Paulo. The multivariate statistical technique of canonical correlation was used to measure the association between the product variables group of the production value with the land use group in agricultural activities. It was concluded that there is a strong correlation （94.3%） in the first pair of canonical variables, representing the production value and the land use, allowing groups of municipalities to be formed at different stages of development in agricultural production. It can be verified that 61.8% of the municipalities in the state were below the average in the production group and land use and that only 4.8% were above average for the production variables group and with values below the average in land use. The stages of agricultural development in the municipalities of Sao Paulo and the association between the production and use of the area can contribute to identify the direction of public policies to increase the productivity of the agricultural sector.
文摘Sugarcane crops have undergone several changes with the intensification of agricultural machinery in Brazil in the last years.This occurs,mainly,due to the transfer of the semi-mechanized system to the mechanized one during harvest operations.Thus,studies are needed on the optimization of sugarcane production in relation to mechanized processes,since it is necessary to verify the adaptability of sugarcane varieties to the mechanization of the plantation.This study aimed to develop and apply a mathematical model of optimization to select sugarcane varieties that maximize production and meet the quality standards required by the industry for sugar and fiber contents.The data were collected in a sugarcane mill located in the interior of S?o Paulo state.The result obtained by the optimization process evinced an increase of 16.65%when compared to the productivity of the initial scenario.
基金supported by the Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP)(Grant Numbers 20/11946-6,18/05821-6,17/10201-4,09/08535-5,19/20894-2,and 19/10666-2)the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq)(Grant Numbers 164937/2020-0,309832/2021-7,308117/2018-2,307718/2018-2,and 409521/2021-3)+1 种基金the Pro-Reitoria de Pesquisa(PROPe)of Sao Paulo State University(UNESP)the IDOR/Pioneer Science Initiative(www.pioneerscience.org).
文摘Background:Near-infrared spectroscopy(NIRS)technology has allowed for the measurement of cerebral and skeletal muscle oxygenation simultaneously during exercise.Since this technology has been growing and is now successfully used in laboratory and sports settings,this systematic review aimed to synthesize the evidence and enhance an integrative understanding of bloodflow adjustments and oxygen(O_(2))changes(i.e.,the balance between O_(2) delivery and O_(2) consumption)within the cerebral and muscle systems during exercise.Methods:A systematic review was conducted using PubMed,Embase,Scopus,and Web of Science databases to search for relevant studies that simultaneously investigated cerebral and muscle hemodynamic changes using the near-infrared spectroscopy system during exercise.This review considered manuscripts written in English and available before February 9,2023.Each step of screening involved evaluation by 2 inde-pendent authors,with disagreements resolved by a third author.The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies.Results:Twenty studies were included,of which 80%had good methodological quality,and involved 290 young or middle-aged adults.Different types of exercises were used to assess cerebral and muscle hemodynamic changes,such as cycling(n=11),treadmill(n=1),knee extension(n=5),isometric contraction of biceps brachii(n=3),and duet swim routines(n=1).The cerebral hemodynamics anal-ysis was focused on the frontal cortex(n=20),while in the muscle,the analysis involved vastus lateralis(n=18),gastrocnemius(n=3),biceps brachii(n=5),deltoid(n=1),and intercostal muscle(n=1).Overall,muscle deoxygenation increases during exercise,reaching a plateau in voluntary exhaustion,while in the brain,oxyhemoglobin concentration increases with exercise intensity,reaching a plateau or declining at the exhaustion point.Conclusion:Muscle and cerebral oxygenation respond differently to exercise,with muscle increasing O_(2) utilization and cerebral tissue increasing O_(2) delivery during exercise.However,at the exhaustion point,both muscle and cerebral oxygenation become compromised.This is characterized by a reduction in bloodflow and a decrease in O_(2) extraction in the muscle,while in the brain,oxygenation reaches a plateau or decline,potentially resulting in motor failure during exercise.
基金This work was supported by the Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),which provided scholarships to HSL(Grant No.2021/09393-1)RVB(Grant No.2021/08644-0)and a research grant to FMA(Grant No.2020/14715-5).The financial sponsors played no role in the design,execution,analysis and interpretation of data,or the writing of the study。
文摘Background:Impairments in hamstring strength,flexibility,and morphology have been associated with altered knee biomechanics,pain,and function.Determining the presence of these impairments in individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders is important and may indicate targets for assessment and rehabilitation.This systematic review aimed to synthesize the literature to determine the presence of impairments in hamstring strength,flexibility,and morphology in individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders.Methods:Five databases(MEDLINE,Embase,CINAHL,SPORTDiscus,and Web of Science)were searched from inception to September 2022.Only studies comparing hamstring outcomes(e.g.,strength,flexibility,and/or morphology)between individuals with gradual-onset knee disorders and their unaffected limbs or pain-free controls were included.Meta-analyses for each knee disorder were performed.Outcome-level certainty was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment,Development,and Evaluation,and evidence gap maps were created.Results:Seventy-nine studies across 4 different gradual-onset knee disorders(i.e.,knee osteoarthritis(OA),patellofemoral pain(PFP),chondromalacia patellae,and patellar tendinopathy)were included.Individuals with knee OA presented with reduced hamstring strength compared to pain-free controls during isometric(standard mean difference(SMD)=-0.76,95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.32 to-0.21)and concentric contractions(SMD=-0.97,95%CI:-1.49 to-0.45).Individuals with PFP presented with reduced hamstring strength compared to painfree controls during isometric(SMD=-0.48,95%CI:-0.82 to-0.14),concentric(SMD=-1.07,95%CI:-2.08 to-0.06),and eccentric contractions(SMD=-0.59,95%CI:-0.97 to-0.21).No differences were observed in individuals with patellar tendinopathy.Individuals with PFP presented with reduced hamstring flexibility when compared to pain-free controls(SMD=-0.76,95%CI:-1.15 to-0.36).Evidence gap maps identified insufficient evidence for chondromalacia patellae and hamstring morphology across all gradual-onset knee disorders.Conclusion:Our findings suggest that assessing and targeting impairments in hamstring strength and flexibility during rehabilitation may be recommended for individuals with knee OA or PFP.
文摘In this editorial,we comment on the article by Marangoni et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology 2023;29:5618-5629,about“Diet as an epigenetic factor in inflammatory bowel disease”.The authors emphasized the role of diet,especially the interaction with genetics,in promoting the inflam-matory process in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)patients,focusing on DNA methylation,histone modifications,and the influence of microRNAs.In this editorial,we explore the interaction between genetics,gut microbiota,and diet,in an only way.Furthermore,we provided dietary recommendations for patients with IBD.The Western diet,characterized by a low fiber content and deficiency the micronutrients,impacts short-chain fatty acids production and may be related to the pathogenesis of IBD.On the other hand,the consumption of the Mediter-ranean diet and dietary fibers are associated with reduced risk of IBD flares,particularly in Crohn’s disease(CD)patients.According to the dietary guidance from the International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases(IOIBD),the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables while reducing the consumption of saturated,trans,dairy fat,additives,processed foods rich in maltodextrins,and artificial sweeteners containing sucralose or saccharine is recommended to CD patients.For patients with ulcerative colitis,the IOIBD recommends the increased intake of natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids and follows the same restrictive recommendations aimed at CD patients,with the possible inclusion of red meats.In conclusion,IBD is a complex and hetero-geneous disease,and future studies are needed to elucidate the influence of epigenetics on diet and microbiota in IBD patients.
基金Supported by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq),No.312499/2022-1São Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),No.2023/00823-9,and No.2023/01251-9.
文摘The high rates of depression,burnout,and increased risk of suicide among medical students,residents,and physicians in comparison with other careers signal a mental health crisis within our profession.We contend that this crisis coupled with the inadequate acquisition of interpersonal skills during medical education results from the interaction between a challenging environment and the mental capital of individuals.Additionally,we posit that mindfulness-based practices are instrumental for the development of major components of mental capital,such as resilience,flexibility of mind,and learning skills,while also serving as a pathway to enhance empathy,compassion,self-awareness,conflict resolution,and relational abilities.Importantly,the evidence base supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions has been increasing over the years,and a growing number of medical schools have already integrated mindfulness into their curricula.While we acknowledge that mindfulness is not a panacea for all educational and mental health problems in this field,we argue that there is currently an unprecedented opportunity to gather momentum,spread and study mindfulness-based programs in medical schools around the world as a way to address some longstanding shortcomings of the medical profession and the health and educational systems upon which it is rooted.
文摘Effective calcium(Ca)management is crucial for optimizing oil palm cultivation and enhancing crop yield.This study aimed to gain insights into the dynamics of Ca concentration,accumulation,exportation,immobilization,and recycling in various oil palm organs relative to plant age.The experiment was conducted at the Agropalma enterprise site in the northeastern region of Para State,Brazil,evaluating seven plant age treatments:2,3,4,5,6,7,and 8 years old.Employing a completely randomized design with four replications.The results demonstrated an age-related increase in Ca concentration in petioles,rachis,arrows,male inflorescences,peduncles,and fruits.Furthermore,Ca accumulation exhibited an upward trend in all organs with progressing plant age.Notably,the study revealed an enhanced Ca use efficiency across all plant organs in correlation with the age of oil palm cultivation.These findings underscore the dynamic nutritional demands of oil palm,influencing Ca immobilization,cycling,and export throughout its developmental stages.
文摘Rotating systems have many applications in wide-ranging industrial contexts. The breakdown of this equipment results in economic wastes and leads to dangerous situations. To avoid such problems is very important, and it can be done through tools that inform about the existence of faults, as well as, about their progress in time. A review of the modeling process used for rotor-support-structure shows that the finite element method is the maj or method employed. In this paper, with the aid of well defined theoretical models, obtained using the finite element technique, and the state observer method for the identification and location of faults, it is possible to monitor the parameters of a rotor-support-structure system, including the foundation effects. In order to improve safety, these parameters must be supervised in case of the occurrence of failures or faults. The state observers are designed using Linear Matrix Inequalities （LMIs）. Finally, experimental results （using for this a rotation system in the mechanical vibrations laboratory at Ilha Solteira＇s Mechanical Engineering Department） demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology developed.
基金supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological and Development (CNPq) (Process number141302/2018-6)。
文摘Zeyheria tuberculosa(Vell.)Bureau ex Verl.is among the Brazilian flora threatened with extinction.It has high-quality wood and can be used to recover herbicidecontaminated areas.However,abiotic stresses can harm seed germination and seedling development under adverse conditions and need to be understood to improve autochthonous or indigenous biodiversity conservation and strengthen reforestation projects.This study evaluated the effects of temperature,water and saline stress on Z.tuberculosa seed germination and water stress on seedling growth.Three laboratory experiments evaluated germination under:(1)different temperatures(20,25,30,35 and 40℃);(2)different water potentials simulated with polyethylene glycol(PEG6000)at 25 and 30℃;and,(3)different osmotic potentials simulated with NaCl at 25 and 30℃.In addition,a greenhouse experiment subjected seedlings to five water regimes(20%,35%,50%,65%and 80%of maximum substrate water holding capacity).In the laboratory,seedling biometry and germination were evaluated,while physiological and morphological parameters were assessed in the greenhouse.Physiological potential of seeds increased at 25 and 30℃.Germination and vigor decreased as water and saline stresses increased.Germination tolerance thresholds for water and salt stresses were-0.6 and-0.4 MPa,respectively.In the greenhouse,the most restrictive water regimes reduced seedling physiological and morphological parameters.Seedling development was compromised at moisture levels below50%field capacity.
基金supported by a Ph.D.scholarship from Sao Paulo Research Foundation-FAPESP (scholarship No.2018/17106-0)。
文摘Background:We compared body mass index(BMI),body fat,and skeletal muscle mass between(1) a mixed-sex nonathletic cohort of people with patellofemoral pain(PFP) and pain-free people,and(2) a nonathletic cohort of people with PFP and pain-free people subgrouped by sex(i.e.,men and women with PFP vs.pain-free men and women).Methods:This cross-sectional study included 114 people with PFP(71 women,43 men) and 54 pain-free controls(32 women,22 men).All participants attended a single testing session to assess body composition measures,which included BMI,percentage of body fat(%BFBioimpedance),and skeletal muscle mass(both assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis),and percentage of body fat(%BFskinfoid)(assessed by skinfold caliper analysis).A one-way univariate analysis of covariance(age and physical activity levels as covariates) was used to compare body composition measures between groups(i.e.,PFP vs.pain-free group;women with PFP vs.pain-free women;men with PFP vs.pain-free men).Results:Women with PFP presented significantly higher BMI,%BFBiompedance,and %BFSkinfold,and lower skeletal muscle mass compared to pain-free women(p≤0.04;effect size:-0.47 to 0.85).Men with PFP and men and women combined had no differences in BMI,%BFBioimpedance,%BFSkinfold,and skeletal muscle mass compared to their respective pain-free groups(p> 0.05).Conclusion:Our findings indicate that BMI and body composition measures should be considered as part of the evaluation and management of people with PFP,especially in women,who have demonstrated higher BMI and body fat and lower skeletal muscle mass compared to pain-free controls.Future studies should not assess body composition measures in a mixed-sex population without distinguishing men participants from women participants.
基金supported by a PhD scholarship from Sao Paulo Research Foundation-FAPESP(scholarship No.2018/17106-0)。
文摘Purpose:This study aimed to(a)investigate the proportion of overweight/obesity in a cohort of young adults with patellofemoral pain(PFP)and(b)explore the association of body mass index(BMI),body fat,and lean mass with functional capacity and hip and knee strength in people with PFP.Methods:We included a mixed-sex sample of young adults(18-35 years old)with PFP(n=100).Measurements for BMI,percentage of body fat,and lean mass(assessed by bioelectrical impedance)were obtained.Functional capacity was assessed by the Anterior Knee Pain Scale,plank test,and single-leg hop test.Strength of the knee extensors,knee flexors,and hip abductors was evaluated isometrically using an isokinetic dynamometer.The proportion of overweight/obesity was calculated based on BMI.The association between BMI,body fat,and lean mass and functional capacity and strength was investigated using partial correlations,followed by hierarchical regression analysis,adjusted for covariates(sex,bilateral pain,and current pain level).Results:A total of 38%of our cohort had their BMI categorized as overweight/obese.Higher BMI was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.06-0.12,p<0.001)and with knee flexion strength only(ΔR^(2)=0.04,p=0.030).Higher body fat was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.05-0.15,p≤0.015)and reduced strength(ΔR^(2)=0.15-0.23,p<0.001).Lower lean mass was associated with poor functional capacity(ΔR^(2)=0.04-0.13,p≤0.032)and reduced strength(ΔR^(2)=0.29-0.31,p<0.001).Conclusion:BMI,body fat,and lean mass should be considered in the assessment and management of young people with PFP because it may be detrimental to function and strength.
文摘The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tracts of humans,living in symbiosis with the host.Dysbiosis,characterized by an imbalance between the beneficial and opportunistic gut microbiota,is associated with several gastrointestinal disorders,such as irritable bowel syndrome(IBS);inflammatory bowel disease(IBD),represented by ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease;and colorectal cancer(CRC).Dysbiosis can disrupt the mucosal barrier,resulting in perpetuation of inflammation and carcinogenesis.The increase in some specific groups of harmful bacteria,such as Escherichia coli(E.coli)and enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis(ETBF),has been associated with chronic tissue inflammation and the release of pro-inflammatory and carcinogenic mediators,increasing the chance of developing CRC,following the inflammationdysplasia-cancer sequence in IBD patients.Therefore,the aim of the present review was to analyze the correlation between changes in the gut microbiota and the development and maintenance of IBD,CRC,and IBD-associated CRC.Patients with IBD and CRC have shown reduced bacterial diversity and abundance compared to healthy individuals,with enrichment of Firmicute sand Bacteroidetes.Specific bacteria are also associated with the onset and progression of CRC,such as Fusobacterium nucleatum,E.coli,Enterococcus faecalis,Streptococcus gallolyticus,and ETBF.Future research can evaluate the advantages of modulating the gut microbiota as preventive measures in CRC high-risk patients,directly affecting the prognosis of the disease and the quality of life of patients.
基金São Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP)grants,No.2017/03959-8 and No.2015/15267-8.
文摘BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a mostly unknown etiology.The incidence and prevalence of IBD are continually increasing,indicating the need for further studies to investigate the genetic determinants of these diseases.Since microRNAs(miRNAs)regulate protein translation via complementary binding to mRNA,discovering differentially expressed miRNAs(DE)in UC or CD patients could be important for diagnostic biomarker identification,assisting in the appropriate disease differentiation progressing the understanding of IBD pathogenesis.AIM To determine the miRNA expression profile in UC and CD patients and the potential pathophysiological contributions of differentially expressed miRNA.METHODS A total of 20 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded colonic samples were collected from the Pathology Department of Botucatu Medical School at São Paulo State University(Unesp).The diagnosis of UC or CD was based on clinical,endoscopic,radiologic,and histological criteria and confirmed by histopathological analysis at the time of selection.The TaqMan™Array Human MicroRNA A+B Cards Set v3.0(Applied Biosystems™)platform was used to analyze 754 miRNAs.Targets of DE-miRNAs were predicted using miRNA Data Integration Portal(mirDIP)and the miRNA Target Interaction database(MiRTarBase).All statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism software.Parametric and nonparametric data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests,respectively.RESULTS The results showed that of the 754 miRNAs that were initially evaluated,643 miRNAs were found to be expressed in at least five of the patients who were diagnosed with either CD or UC;the remaining 111 miRNAs were not considered to be expressed in these patients.The expression levels of 28 miRNAs were significantly different between the CD and UC patients(P≤0.05);13 miRNAs demonstrated a fold-change in expression level greater than 1.Five miRNAs with a downregulated expression were selected for enrichment analysis.The miRNAs whose expression levels were significantly lower in UC patients than in CD patients were enriched in certain signaling pathways that were mostly correlated with cancer-related processes and respective biomarkers.CONCLUSION MiRNAs could be used to differentiate UC from CD,and differently expressed miRNAs could help explain the distinct pathophysiology of each disease.
基金supported by CAPES (scholarship),PROPGUNESP Foundation (Brazil) and Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) through the project UID/QUI/ 00100/2019.
文摘Air pollution causes deleterious effects on human health with aerosols being among the most polluting agents.The objective of this work is the characterization of the PM2.5 and PM10 aerosol mass in the atmosphere.The methods of analysis include WD-XRF and EDS.Data were correlated with meteorological information and air mass trajectories(model HYSPLIT)by multivariate analysis.A morphological structural analysis was also carried out to identify the probable sources of atmospheric aerosols in the city of Sao Jose do Rio Preto,Brazil.The mean mass concentration values obtained were 24.54 μg/m^3 for PM10,above the WHO annual standard value of 20 μg/m^3 and 10.88 μg/m^3 for PM2.5 whose WHO recommended limit is10 μg/m^3.WD-XRF analysis of the samples revealed Si and Al as major components of the coarse fraction.In the fine fraction,the major elements were Al and S.The SEM-FEG characterization allowed identifying the morphology of the particles in agglomerates,ellipsoids and filaments in the PM10,besides spherical in the PM2.5.The analysis by EDS corroborated WD-XRF results,identifying the crustal elements,aluminosilicates and elements of anthropogenic origin in the coarse fraction.For the fine fraction crustal elements were also identified;aluminosilicates,black carbon and spherical particles(C and O) originating from combustion processes were predominant.The use of multivariate analysis to correlate air mass trajectories with the results of the morpho-structural characterization of the particulate matter allowed confirmation of the complex composition of the particles resulting from the combination of both local and long-distance sources.
基金Supported by Brazilian funding agencies(Sao Paulo Research Foundation-FAPESP and National Council for Scientific and Technological Development-CNPq)
文摘Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. An estimated 150 million individuals worldwide have been chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus(HCV). Hepatitis C shows significant genetic variation in the global population, due to the high rate of viral RNA mutation. There are six variants of the virus(HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6), with 15 recorded subtypes that vary in prevalence across different regions of the world. A variety of devices are used to diagnose hepatitis C, including HCV antibody test, HCV viral load test, HCV genotype test and liver biopsy. Rapid, inexpensive, sensitive, and robust analytical devices are therefore essential for effective diagnosis and monitoring of disease treatment. This review provides an overview of current electrochemical immunosensor and genosensortechnologies employed in HCV detection.There are a limited number of publications showing electrochemical biosensors being used for the detection of HCV.Due to their simplicity,specificity,and reliability,electrochemical biosensor devices have potential clinical applications in several viral infections.
基金Supported by the Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),No.2015/14797-3 to Périco LL and No.2009/52237-9 to Laboratory of Biological Assays with Natural Products
文摘AIM To evaluate the sex-specific effects of a hydroalcoholic extract from Eugenia punicifolia(HEEP) leaves on gastric ulcer healing.METHODS In this rat study involving males, intact(cycling) females, and ovariectomized females, gastric ulcers were induced using acetic acid. A vehicle, lansoprazole, or HEEP was administered for 14 d after ulcer induction. Body weight was monitored throughout the treatment period. At the end of treatment, the rats were euthanized and the following in vivo and in vitro investigations were performed: macroscopic examination of the lesion area and organ weights, biochemical analysis, zymography, and evaluation of protein expression levels. Additionally, the concentration-dependent effect of HEEP was evaluated in terms of subacute toxicity and cytotoxicity.RESULTS Compared to the vehicle, HEEP demonstrated a great healing capacity by substantially reducing the ulcerative lesion area in males(52.44%), intact females(85.22%), and ovariectomized females(65.47%), confirming that HEEP accelerates the healing of acetic acidinduced gastric lesions and suggesting that this effect is modulated by female sex hormones. The antiulcer effect of HEEP was mediated by prostaglandin E2 only in male rats. Overall, the beneficial effect of HEEP was the highest in intact females. Notably, HEEP promoted the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor(intact vs ovariectomized females) and decreased the expression of Caspase-8 and Bcl-2(intact female vs male or ovariectomized female). Additionally, HEEP enhanced fibroblast proliferation and migration into a wounded area in vitro, confirming its healing effect. Finally, no sign of subacute toxicity or cytotoxicity of HEEP was observed.CONCLUSION In gastric ulcers, HEEP-induced healing(modulated by female sex hormones; in males, mediated by prostaglandin) involves extracellular matrix remodeling, with gastric mucosa cell proliferation and migration.
基金supported by Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP,grant Nos.2015/03965-2 and 2014/00239-6)the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq,grant Nos.307603/2018-0 and 307269/2017-5)Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel(CAPES,Finance Code 001)。
文摘Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vascular homeostasis.Moreover,they have been implicated in a series of pathologies(e.g.,hypersensitivity reactions,tumors,and inflammatory disorders).In this review,we propose that this cell could be a relevant therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis,which is a central nervous system degenerative disease.To support this proposition,we describe the general biological properties of mast cells,their contribution to innate and specific immunity,and the participation of mast cells in the various stages of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development.The final part of this review is dedicated to an overview of the available mast cells immunomodulatory drugs and their activity on multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,including our own experience related to the effect of ketotifen fumarate on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis evolution.
基金Supported by São Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),No.2015/21464-0 and No.2015/23392-7National Counsel of Technological and Scientific Development(CNPq),No.310120/2015-2.
文摘BACKGROUND Chronic inflammation due to Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection promotes gastric carcinogenesis.Tumour necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),a key mediator of inflammation,induces cell survival or apoptosis by binding to two receptors(TNFR1 and TNFR2).TNFR1 can induce both survival and apoptosis,while TNFR2 results only in cell survival.The dysregulation of these processes may contribute to carcinogenesis.AIM To evaluate the effects of TNFR1 and TNFR2 downregulation in AGS cells treated with H.pylori extract on the TNF-αpathway.METHODS AGS cell lines containing TNFR1 and TNFR2 receptors downregulated by specific shRNAs and nonsilenced AGS cells were treated with H.pylori extract for 6 h.Subsequently,quantitative polymerase chain reaction with TaqMan®assays was used for the relative quantification of the mRNAs(TNFA,TNFR1,TNFR2,TRADD,TRAF2,CFLIP,NFKB1,NFKB2,CASP8,CASP3)and miRNAs(miR-19a,miR-34a,miR-103a,miR-130a,miR-181c)related to the TNF-αsignalling pathway.Flow cytometry was employed for cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assays.RESULTS In nonsilenced AGS cells,H.pylori extract treatment increased the expression of genes involved in cell survival and inhibited both apoptosis(NFKB1,NFKB2 and CFLIP)and the TNFR1 receptor.TNFR1 downregulation significantly decreased the expression of the TRADD and CFLIP genes,although no change was observed in the cellular process or miRNA expression.In contrast,TNFR2 downregulation decreased the expression of the TRADD and TRAF2 genes,which are both important downstream mediators of the TNFR1-mediated pathway,as well as that of the NFKB1 and CFLIP genes,while upregulating the expression of miR-19a and miR-34a.Consequently,a reduction in the number of cells in the G0/G1 phase and an increase in the number of cells in the S phase were observed,as well as the promotion of early apoptosis.CONCLUSION Our findings mainly highlight the important role of TNFR2 in the TNF-αpathway in gastric cancer,indicating that silencing it can reduce the expression of survival and anti-apoptotic genes.
文摘The forest investment projects,analyzed through the application of simulation techniques,allow measuring more accurately the benefits or losses,considering the systemic uncertainties related to forest plantation.In this perspective,the objective of this study was to identify the relative importance of sources of uncertainties in determining the net present value(NPV)of planting of Ochroma pyramidale on a forested property located in the state of S?o Paulo,Brazil.Thus,it assigns probability distributions to the parameters with uncertainties and applies the Monte Carlo technique to obtain the stochastic behavior of the NPV,of the modified internal rate of return(MIRR)and the profitability index(PI).The probabilistic results of the quantitative methods analyzed allowed us to conclude that for the planting O.pyramidale,with 5-year cutting age,indicated economic profitability.In addition,there is a probability that 84.6%of the project will add economic value to the invested capital.
文摘BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD)have been associated with a low quality of life(QoL)and a negative impact on work productivity compared to the general population.Information about disease control,patient-reported outcomes(PROs),treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources is relevant to optimizing IBD management.AIM To describe QoL and work productivity and activity impairment(WPAI),treatment patterns and use of healthcare resources among IBD patients in Brazil.METHODS A multicenter cross-sectional study included adult outpatients who were previously diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease(CD)or ulcerative colitis(UC).At enrolment,active CD and UC were defined as having a Harvey Bradshaw Index≥8 or a CD Activity Index≥220 or calprotectin>200μg/g or previous colonoscopy results suggestive of inadequate control(per investigator criteria)and a 9-point partial Mayo score≥5,respectively.The PRO assessment included the QoL questionnaires SF-36 and EQ-5D-5L,the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire(IBDQ),and the WPAI questionnaire.Information about healthcare resources and treatment during the previous 3 years was collected from medical records.Chi-square,Fisher’s exact and Student’s t-/Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare PROs,treatment patterns and the use of healthcare resources by disease activity(α=0.05).RESULTS Of the 407 patients in this study(CD/UC:64.9%/35.1%,mean age 42.9/45.9 years,54.2%/56.6%female,38.3%/37.1%employed),44.7%/25.2%presented moderate-to-severe CD/UC activity,respectively,at baseline.Expressed in median values for CD/UC,respectively,the SF-36 physical component was 46.6/44.7 and the mental component was 45.2/44.2,the EQ-visual analog scale score was 80.0/70.0,and the IBDQ overall score was 164.0/165.0.Moderate to severe activity,female gender,being unemployed,a lower educational level and lower income were associated with lower QoL(P<0.05).Median work productivity impairment was 20%and 5%for CD and UC patients,respectively,and activity impairment was 30%,the latter being higher among patients with moderate to severe disease activity compared to patients with mild or no disease activity(75.0%vs 10.0%,P<0.001).For CD/UC patients,respectively,25.4%/2.8%had at least one surgery,38.3%/19.6%were hospitalized,and 70.7%/77.6%changed IBD treatment at least once during the last 3 years.The most common treatments at baseline were biologics(75.3%)and immunosuppressants(70.9%)for CD patients and 5-ASA compounds(77.5%)for UC patients.CONCLUSION Moderate to severe IBD activity,especially among CD patients,is associated with a substantial impact on QoL,work productivity impairment and an increased number of IBD surgeries and hospitalizations in Brazil.
