Investigating the distribution of a unique crustacean microendemic to tree hollows.

Water-filled tree hollows constitute phytotelmata that harbor specialized organisms. One striking example of extreme adaptation to these microhabitats is the case of the microcrustacean Micromoina arboricola, which has been found inhabiting the hollow of a single tree individual in the Atlantic Forest. We investigated the spatial distribution and influence of microhabitat characteristics such as hollow volume and height from the ground in the occurrence of M.

Behavioural changes of native freshwater prawn in the presence of a predator fish.

Predation pressure influences animal behaviour in relation to feeding, exposure to predators and habitat use. In the presence of a predator, prey usually decreases feeding and activity, avoiding predation-risk areas. This study evaluated the visual effects of a predator fish (red-bellied piranha Pygocentrus nattereri) on the behaviour and habitat use of Macrobrachium jelskii prawn.

Unique combination of hyaluronic acid and amino acids in the management of patients with a wide range of moderate-to-severe chronic wounds: Evidence from international clinical practice.

The availability of new products and strategies to manage wounds has taken a quantum leap in recent years. Healthcare professionals now have an extensive range of products to choose from, but while positive this also raises dilemmas in real-world clinical practice to decide on the most appropriate treatment for a given patient. Clinical trials confirm the effectiveness of the unique combination of hyaluronic acid and amino acids (Vulnamin®) in a range of wounds, but are these results replicated in real-world clinical practice? International experts presented their clinical experience with the use of the combination in difficult-to-treat wounds.

A methodological proposal for the analysis of Cladocera (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) subfossils from sediments of temporary aquatic ecosystems.

The main objective of the present study was to promote some adaptations to the standard methodology used in the analysis of Cladocera subfossils. The samples used in this study were collected at Lagoa dos Coutos, a temporary lake located on an outcrop with iron-rich duricrust in the Serra do Gandarela (Minas Gerais, Brazil). The sediment from this pond, typical of temporary ecosystems in the region, is characterized by rigid concretions that are difficult to dissolve in aqueous media, making it difficult to visualize and analyze subfossils taxa.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of a hyperoxidized oil-based medication in the treatment of skin lesions: observational study.

Aim: Aim of the study was to demonstrate the effectiveness, in the management of recalcitrant wounds, of a hyperoxidized oil-based gel with film-forming and protective functions.

Methods: The study involved 50 patients with recalcitrant not infected and/or necrotic chronic ulcers. All patients had 0.

A controlled, randomised study on the efficacy of two overlays in the treatment of decubitus ulcers.

Aim: The aims of this study were to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of an antibedsore overlay in 3D structure of new conception towards an overlay of common use. Evaluation parameters: wound area reduction, healing, safety and comfort.

Methods: Open randomized multicenter study comparing the two overlays for the treatment and prevention of pressure sores.

Microcrystalline cellulose membrane for re-epithelisation of chronic leg wounds: a prospective open study.

Treatment of chronic leg ulcers remains a major health care issue. Although many reports have examined different topical dressings, none have specifically looked at microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). We aimed to evaluate in a prospective, open study the safety and performance of a MCC membrane (Veloderm) in a series of chronic leg wounds of different aetiology.

Effectiveness of topical application of amino acids to chronic wounds: a prospective observational study.

Objective: To evaluate whether the topical application of an amino acid dressing, Vulnamin, aids the management of chronic wounds.

Method: A total of 160 patients with non-infected cutaneous chronic wounds were recruited. Before treatment, wound size was assessed using digital planimetry.

Effect of zinc or zinc plus arginine supplementation on antibody titre and lymphocyte subsets after influenza vaccination in elderly subjects: a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: to evaluate whether oral supplementation with zinc or zinc/arginine increases the antibody response to influenza vaccine or modulates the lymphocyte phenotype in elderly subjects.

Design: a randomized controlled trial with two supplemented groups and one control group.

Setting: a community nursing home.

Pulmonary nonspecific defense mechanisms in cystic fibrosis. I. Phagocytic capacity of alveolar macrophages and neutrophils.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the commonest cause of chronic obstruction lung disease within the first three decades of life. Because patients suffer from repeated pulmonary infections, we were interested in studying the nonspecific antibacterial mechanisms of the lungs of CF children. Fifteen CF children, 13 nontuberculous pulmonary-infected (I) children and 4 noninfected (N-I) children, who were diagnosed as having a foreign body in the air passages, were submitted to a bronchopulmonary washing.