Anthropometric measurements as a key diagnostic tool for familial partial lipodystrophy in women.

BACKGROUND: Familial Partial Lipodystrophy (FPLD) is a disease with wide clinical and genetic variation, with seven different subtypes described. Until genetic testing becomes feasible in clinical practice, non-invasive tools are used to evaluate body composition in lipodystrophic patients. This study aimed to analyze the different anthropometric parameters used for screening and diagnosis of FPLD, such as thigh skinfold thickness (TS), Köb index (Köbi), leg fat percentage (LFP), fat mass ratio (FMR) and leg-to-total fat mass ratio in grams (LTR), by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, focusing on determining cutoff points for TS and LFP within a Brazilian population. METHODS: Thirty-seven patients with FPLD and seventy-four healthy controls matched for body mass index, sex and age were studied. Data were collected through medical record review after signing informed consent. All participants had body fat distribution evaluated by skinfolds and DXA measures. Fasting blood samples were collected to evaluate glycemic and lipid profiles. Genetic studies were carried out on all patients. Two groups were categorized based on genetic testing and/or anthropometric characteristics: FPLD+ (positive genetic test) and FPLD1 (negative genetic testing, but positive clinical/anthropometric criteria for FPLD). RESULTS: Eighteen (48.6%) patients were classified as FPLD+, and 19 (51.4%) as FPLD1. Unlike what is described in the literature, the LMNA variant in codon 582 was the most common. Among the main diagnostic parameters of FPLD, a statistical difference was observed between the groups for, Köbi, TS, LFP, FMR, and LTR. A cutoff point of 20 mm for TS in FPLD women was found, which is lower than the value classically described in the literature for the diagnosis of FPLD. Additionally, an LFP < 29.6% appears to be a useful tool to aid in the diagnosis of these women. CONCLUSION: Combining anthropometric measurements to assess body fat distribution can lead to a more accurate diagnosis of FPLD. This study suggests new cutoff points for thigh skinfold and leg fat percentage in women with suspected FPLD in Brazil. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Disengagement from the Ribeirão Preto early intervention program for psychosis: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Treatment discontinuation within Early Intervention Services (EIS) for psychosis poses a significant challenge to achieving better outcomes in the early stages of psychotic disorders. Prevalence and predictors of early disengagement from EIS located in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) remain poorly investigated. We aimed to examine the rates and predictors of disengagement from the Ribeirão Preto Early Intervention Program for Psychosis (Ribeirão Preto-EIP) in Brazil. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from patients referred to the Ribeirão Preto-EIP between January 01, 2015, and December 31, 2018. Exclusion criteria were individuals with a single consultation, a diagnosis other than a psychotic disorder, and documented cases of death. RESULTS: Our sample comprised 234 patients, with an overall median follow-up time of 14.2 months. Early treatment disengagement was observed in 26.5 % (n=62), with a median time to disengagement of 5.25 months. Univariable analysis identified non-white skin color (HR=2.10, 95 %CI 1.26-3.49), positive THC screening (HR=2.22, 95 %CI 1.23-4.01), and substance-induced psychosis (HR=2.15, 95 %CI 1.10-4.21) as significant predictors. In multivariable analysis, only non-white skin color remained a significant predictor of early disengagement (HR=1.87, 95 %CI 1.08-3.27). CONCLUSIONS: The observed rates of early disengagement in our sample are similar to those reported in wealthy countries, but higher than previously reported for LMICs. Non-white skin color predicted early disengagement in our sample, probably due to social disadvantages. Our data highlights the need for enhanced research elucidating the specific features of EIS in LMICs.

Comprehensive analysis of morbidity and mortality patterns in familial partial lipodystrophy patients: insights from a population study.

Background: There is a lack of information on the clinical and molecular presentation of familial partial lipodystrophy (FPLD), a rare genetic disorder characterized by partial subcutaneous fat loss. Objective: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the clinical, metabolic, and genetic features of FPLD in the Brazilian population. Methods: In a multicenter cross-sectional investigation we evaluated patients with FPLD across five Brazilian reference centers for lipodystrophies. Diagnosis of FPLD was made by clinical evaluation and genetic confirmation. Data on genetic, clinical, and metabolic characteristics were captured. Statistical analysis involved the utilization of the Kruskal-Wallis test to identify differences. Results: The study included 106 patients with genetic confirmation of FPLD. The mean age was 44 ± 15 years, and they were predominantly female (78.3%). LMNA pathogenic variants were identified in 85.8% of patients, PPARG in 10.4%, PLIN1 in 2.8%, and MFN2 in 0.9%. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was highly prevalent (57.5%), affecting 54 females (50.9%). Median triglycerides levels were 199 mg/dL (54-2724 mg/dL), severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥ 500 mg/dL) was found in 34.9% and pancreatitis in 8.5%. Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) was observed in 56.6%, and cardiovascular disease in 10.4%. The overall mortality rate was 3.8%, due to cardiovascular events. Conclusion: This study presents an extensive cohort of Brazilian patients with FPLD, predominantly DM with several multisystem complications. A comprehensive characterization of lipodystrophy syndromes is crucial for effective patient management and care.

Effects of Carbohydrate Intake on Anopheles darlingi and Anopheles deaneorum Fitness under Lab-Reared Conditions.

The maintenance of a highly productive colony of anopheline mosquitoes requires standardized methods in order to obtain a sufficient number of homogeneous individuals for malaria research. In this context, nutritional status may affect survival, fecundity, and the capacity to support pathogen development. Here we assess the effects of carbohydrate sources on fecundity, survival, and susceptibility to Plasmodium vivax infection in colonies of Anopheles darlingi and Anopheles deaneorum mosquitoes. Newly emerged females from each species were fed either 10% sugar or 15% honey solutions until the end of each experiment. The type of carbohydrate meal did not impact any entomological parameters for An. deaneorum, except for survival. For both species, honey meal significantly increased median survival post-emergence by three to four days, probably due to its nutritional value. For An. darlingi fed with honey, a higher mean frequency in stage 5 was observed at 48 h post-blood-meal, which could indicate a delay in the digestion process. However, no effects on fecundity parameters were observed. Regarding susceptibility, An. darlingi fed with sugar exhibited a low intensity of sporozoites, although any negative effects of sucrose on sporozoites invasions in the salivary glands are unknown. Based on the increase in mosquito survival, a carbohydrate source composed of 15% honey solution could be better for maintaining An. darlingi and An. deaneorum in the lab-rearing context.

Case Report: Plasmodium vivax Sporozoite Melanization in the Midgut and Salivary Gland of the Malaria Vector Anopheles darlingi.

Anopheles darlingi is the primary malaria vector in the Amazon region and is highly susceptible to both Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum parasites. Although anopheline mosquitoes may develop melanotic encapsulation in response to Plasmodium parasites, there is no record of An. darlingi exhibiting a melanization response to P. vivax, the main malaria parasite in the Americas. Here, we report the occurrence of P. vivax sporozoite melanization in An. darlingi mosquitoes.

Transmission-reducing and -enhancing monoclonal antibodies against Plasmodium vivax gamete surface protein Pvs48/45.

Gamete surface protein P48/45 has been shown to be important for male gamete fertility and a strong candidate for the development of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV). However, TBV development for Plasmodium vivax homolog Pvs48/45 has been slow because of a number of challenges: availability of conformationally suitable recombinant protein; the lack of an in vivo challenge model; and the inability to produce P. vivax gametocytes in culture to test transmission-blocking activity of antibodies. To support ongoing efforts to develop Pvs48/45 as a potential vaccine candidate, we initiated efforts to develop much needed reagents to move the field forward. We generated monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against Pvs48/45 and characterized putative functional domains in Pvs48/45 using recombinant fragments corresponding to domains D1-D3 and their biological functionality through ex vivo direct membrane feeding assays (DMFAs) using P. vivax parasites from patients in a field setting in Brazil. While some mAbs partially blocked oocyst development in the DMFA, one mAb caused a significant enhancement of the infectivity of gametocytes in the mosquitoes. Individual mAbs exhibiting blocking and enhancing activities recognized non-overlapping epitopes in Pvs48/45. Further characterization of precise epitopes recognized by transmission-reducing and -enhancing antibodies will be crucial to design an effective immunogen with optimum transmission-reducing potential.

Ecophysiological responses of Liolaemus arambarensis juveniles to experimental temperature variations.

Climate change increasingly influences the loss of biodiversity, especially in ectothermic organisms, which depend on environmental temperatures to obtain heat and regulate their life cycle. Studies that aim to understand the impact of temperature variation are important to better understand the possible impacts generated on the homeostasis of ectothermic organisms. Our objective was to characterize the responses of juvenile Liolaemus arambarensis lizards to abrupt changes in temperature, quantifying markers of body condition, intermediary and hormonal metabolism and oxidative balance. We collected 45 juvenile individuals of L. arambarensis (winter: 20 and summer: 25) in Barra do Ribeiro, Brazil. We transported the animals to the laboratory, where they were acclimatized for five days at a temperature of 20 °C, then divided and exposed to temperatures of 10 °C, 20 °C, 30 °C and 40 °C for 24 h. After exposure, the animals were euthanized and the brain, caudal muscle, thigh, and liver tissues were extracted for quantification of biomarkers of metabolism (glycogen and total proteins) and oxidative balance (acetylcholinesterase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and lipoperoxidation) and plasma for corticosterone quantification. The results show that L. arambarensis is susceptible to sudden temperature variations, where higher temperatures caused greater activity of antioxidant enzymes, increased lipoperoxidation and higher plasma levels of corticosterone in animals eliminated in winter. The present study demonstrated that abrupt changes in temperature could significantly modify the homeostatic mechanisms of animals, which could lead to oxidative stress and a potential trade-off between survival and growth/reproduction. In this context, the organism mobilizes energy resources for survival, with possible damage to growth and reproduction. Demonstrate that a change in temperature can be a potential factor in extinction for a species given the profile of global climate change.

Dinâmica espaço-temporal e fatores associados à mortalidade neonatal / Space-temporal dynamics and factors associated with newborn mortality / Dinámica Espacio-temporal y factores asociados a la mortalidad del recién nacido

Objetivo:analisar a distribuição espacial e temporal da mortalidade neonatal e fatores associados no Piauí de 2007 a 2017. Método: foi utilizado o método Joinpoint, estatística bayesiana e a técnica de varredura Scan. A análise multivariada dos indicadores foi realizada através do modelo Ordinary Least Squares Estimation, considerando-se p<0,05. Resultados: a mortalidade neonatal reduziu de forma linear e significativa ao longo do período estudado. As maiores taxas bayesianas variaram de 16,34 a 18,38 óbitos por 1.000 nascidos vivos, especialmente no Sudeste piauiense. Houve associação negativa entre a mortalidade neonatal e as variáveis: Taxa de analfabetismo (ß = -0,60; p= 0,027), Cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ß = -2,80; p= 0,023) e Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal (ß = -0,60; p= 0,003). Conclusão: a mortalidade neonatal segue decrescente e sua distribuição no território mostrou-se irregular. Indicadores socioeconômicos e de saúde influenciam a mortalidade neonatal no Piauí

Objective: to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of neonatal mortality and associated factors in Piauí from 2007 to 2017. Method: the Joinpoint method, Bayesian statistics and the Scan technique were used. The multivariate analysis of the indicators was performed using the Ordinary Least Squares Estimation model, considering p<0.05. Results: neonatal mortality decreased linearly and significantly over the period studied. The highest Bayesian rates ranged from 16.34 to 18.38 deaths per 1,000 live births, especially in Southeast Piauí. There was a negative association between neonatal mortality and the variables: Illiteracy rate (ß = -0.60; p= 0.027), Family Health Strategy Coverage (ß = -2.80; p= 0.023) and Human Development Index Municipal (ß = -0.60; p= 0.003). Conclusion: neonatal mortality continues to decrease and its distribution in the territory proved to be irregular. Socioeconomic and health indicators influence neonatal mortality in Piauí

Objetivos: analizar la distribución espacial y temporal de la mortalidad neonatal y factores asociados en Piauí de 2007 a 2017. Método: se utilizó el método Joinpoint, la estadística bayesiana y la técnica Scan. El análisis multivariado de los indicadores se realizó mediante el modelo de Estimación por Mínimos Cuadrados Ordinarios, considerando p<0,05. Resultados: la mortalidad neonatal disminuyó lineal y significativamente durante el período estudiado. Las tasas bayesianas más altas oscilaron entre 16,34 y 18,38 muertes por 1.000 nacidos vivos, especialmente en el Sudeste de Piauí. Hubo asociación negativa entre la mortalidad neonatal y las variables: Tasa de Analfabetismo (ß = -0,60; p= 0,027), Cobertura de la Estrategia de Salud de la Familia (ß = -2,80; p= 0,023) e Índice de Desarrollo Humano Municipal (ß = -0,60; p= 0,003). Conclusión: la mortalidad neonatal continúa en descenso y su distribución en el territorio resultó ser irregular. Indicadores socioeconómicos y de salud influyen en la mortalidad neonatal en Piauí

Effect of Dioscorea villosa extract and the phytoestrogen diosgenin on ovariectomized mice with zymosan-induced arthritis

Abstract Humans are exposed to natural compounds such as phytoestrogens primarily through diet and supplements. These compounds promote health by alleviating the symptoms and illnesses associated with menopause and arthritis. Diosgenin (DSG) occurs naturally in plants such as Dioscorea villosa (DV) and binds to estrogen receptors, so it may have similar effects to this hormone, including against arthritis. Thus, we investigated the effect of chronic treatment with dry extract of DV and its phytoestrogen DSG on ovariectomized mice with arthritis. We found that dry extract of Dioscorea villosa (DV) contains the phytoestrogen diosgenin (DSG) in its composition. Furthermore, arthritic mice treated with DV and DSG showed reduced neutrophil accumulation in the articular cartilage. Also, the dry extract of DV administered orally (v.o) did not alter the leukocyte count in the joints or promote changes in the reproductive tract. However, DSG altered these parameters, with possible beneficial effects by reducing symptoms related to reproductive aging. Thus, oral treatment with dry extract of DV and subcutaneous (s.c) treatment with DSG showed promise by acting against inflammation caused by arthritis and reducing symptoms in the reproductive tract due to menopause.

Evaluation of insemination, blood feeding, and Plasmodium vivax infection effects on locomotor activity patterns of the malaria vector Anopheles darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae).

Circadian behavioral patterns in mosquitoes can be observed through their locomotor activity, which includes fundamental behaviors such as foraging, mating, and oviposition. These habits, which are fundamental to the life cycle of Anopheles mosquitoes, are closely related to pathogen transmission to humans. While rhythmic cycles of locomotor activity have been described in Anopheles species, no studies have been conducted on Anopheles darlingi species, the main malaria vector in the Amazon region. The aim of this study was to investigate how insemination status, blood meal, and Plasmodium vivax infection affect the locomotor activity of An. darlingi. The experiments were performed with 3- to 10-day-old An. darlingi females, which had been fed with 15% honey solution. These mosquitoes were obtained from the Malaria Vector Production and Infection Platform (PIVEM)/FIOCRUZ-RO. The experimental groups were divided into four categories: virgin vs. inseminated, unfed virgin vs. blood-fed virgin, unfed inseminated vs. blood-fed inseminated, and infected blood vs. uninfected blood. Locomotor activity was monitored using the Flybox equipment, capturing images that were subsequently converted into video to measure the insect activity, using PySoLo software. The periodicity and rhythmicity of mosquito locomotor activity were analyzed using MatLab® software. The locomotor activity of An. darlingi females showed a nocturnal and bimodal pattern under LD conditions. When comparing the insemination states and blood meal, there was a reduction in the locomotor activity in inseminated and blood-fed females. However, the P. vivax+ infection did not increase locomotor activity of An. darlingi species.

Candida krusei M4CK Produces a Bioemulsifier That Acts on Melaleuca Essential Oil and Aids in Its Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity.

Surface-active compounds (SACs) of microbial origin are an active group of biomolecules with potential use in the formulation of emulsions. In this sense, the present study aimed to isolate and select yeasts from fruits that could produce SACs for essential oil emulsions. The Candida krusei M4CK was isolated from the Byrsonima crassifolia fruit to make SACs. This emulsification activity (E24) was equal to or greater 50% in all carbon sources, such as olive oil, sunflower oil, kerosene, hexane, and hexadecane. E24 followed exponential growth according to the growth phase. The stability of emulsions was maintained over a wide range of temperatures, pH, and salinity. The OMBE4CK (melaleuca essential oil emulsion) had better and more significant inhibitory potential for biofilm reduction formation. In addition, bioemulsifier BE4CK alone on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm showed few effective results, while there was a significant eradication for Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. The biofilms formed by S. aureus were eradicated in all concentrations of OMBE4CK. At the same time, the preformed biofilm by E. coli and P. aeruginosa were removed entirely at concentrations of 25 mg/mL, 12.5 mg/mL, and 6.25 mg/mL. The results show that the bioemulsifier BE4CK may represent a new potential for antibiofilm application.

Nursing diagnosis proposal "Impaired Peripheral Venous Return": concept formation.

OBJECTIVES: to develop a nursing diagnosis proposal focused on venous return. METHODS: this is a concept analysis according to the model proposed by Walker and Avant, which is operationalized through an integrative review. The study was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol recommendations. RESULTS: the analysis of the 131 studies allowed identifying attributes, antecedents and consequences. The most common attribute was decreased venous flow. The antecedents most frequently found were structural and/or functional valve deficiency, advanced age and peripheral venous thrombosis. The most common consequences were peripheral edema, venous ulcer and pain in the extremity. CONCLUSIONS: the formulated nursing diagnosis was proposed as part of Domain 4, Activity/rest, in Class 4, Cardiovascular/pulmonary responses, with eight defining characteristics, five related factors, six at-risk populations and four associated conditions.

Ocular dryness in intensive care: proposal for a new nursing diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the concept associated with diagnostic proposition Ocular dryness in adult patients hospitalized in an Intensive Care Unit, identifying its attributes, antecedents and consequences. METHODS: a methodological study carried out through concept analysis, operationalized by scoping review. RESULTS: the analysis of 180 studies allowed the identification of two attributes, 32 antecedents and 12 consequences. The attributes were tear film deficiency and ocular signs and/or symptoms. The prevalent antecedents were incomplete eyelid closure (lagophthalmos) and blinking mechanism decrease. Major consequences included conjunctival hyperemia and decreased tear volume. CONCLUSIONS: this study allowed constructing nursing diagnosis Ocular dryness, part of domain 11, class 2, with 12 defining characteristics, 12 related factors, seven populations at risk and 13 associated conditions. This problem-focused proposal may provide targeted care by promoting early detection and implementing interventions that reduce the risk of ocular damage.

MTOR gene variants are associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes: A multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: The worst outcomes linked to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have been attributed to the cytokine storm, which contributes significantly to the immunopathogenesis of the disease. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is essential for orchestrating innate immune cell defense including cytokine production and is dysregulated in severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) individuals. The individual genetic background might play a role in the exacerbated immune response. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between MTOR genetic variants and COVID-19 outcomes. METHODS: This study enrolled groups of individuals with severe (n = 285) and mild (n = 207) COVID-19 from Brazilian states. The MTOR variants, rs1057079 and rs2536, were genotyped. A logistic regression analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were performed. We applied a genotyping risk score to estimate the cumulative contribution of the risk alleles. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) plasma levels were also measured. RESULTS: The T allele of the MTOR rs1057079 variant was associated with a higher likelihood of developing the most severe form of COVID-19. In addition, higher levels of IL-6 and COVID-19 death was linked to the T allele of the rs2536 variant. These variants exhibited a cumulative risk when inherited collectively. CONCLUSIONS: These results show a potential pathogenetic role of MTOR gene variants and may be useful for predicting severe outcomes following COVID-19 infection, resulting in a more effective allocation of health resources.

Fragilidade em pessoas idosas com Diabetes Mellitus e fatores associados: estudo longitudinal / Frailty in elderly people with Diabetes Mellitus and associated factors: longitudinal study

Introdução: O Diabetes Mellitus ocasiona a diminuição das reservas e capacidades funcionais. Sua associação com a síndrome da fragilidade acarreta declínio gradativo no sistema biológico, causando prejuízos globais à saúde da população idosa e, portanto, comprometendo sua qualidade de vida. Objetivo: analisar a evolução da fragilidade e fatores associados em pessoas idosas com Diabetes Mellitus. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo longitudinal caracterizado por duas avaliações com intervalo de 18 meses, envolvendo 49 participantes com idade ≥ 60 anos e de ambos os sexos com diagnóstico clínico de Diabetes Mellitus. Na análise dos dados foram utilizadas medidas de tendência central, dispersão, proporções, teste não paramétrico de Wilcoxon pareado e análise linear múltipla. Resultados: Na avaliação do seguimento, ocorreu um aumento da fragilidade e comprometimento da capacidade funcional entre as duas avaliações. Fatores associados, como as atividades instrumentais da vida diária e o número total de doenças, impactaram negativamente sobre a fragilidade dos participantes. Discussão: Os resultados encontrados no estudo convergem com a literatura cientifica relacionada à associação de doenças crônicas como a Diabetes Mellitus no aumento da fragilidade. Conclusão: A presença de uma doença crônica como a Diabetes Mellitus pode ocasionar o aumento da fragilidade e comprometer a funcionalidade. A avaliação destas condições nos serviços de saúde para identificação precoce é fundamental para estabelecer estratégias assertivas para a manutenção de um envelhecimento com qualidade de vida.

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus causes a decrease in reserves and functional capabilities. Its association with frailty syndrome leads to a gradual decline in the biological system, causing global harm to the health of the elderly population and, therefore, compromising their quality of life. Objective: to analyze the evolution of frailty and associated factors in elderly people with Diabetes Mellitus. Materials and Methods: Longitudinal study characterized by two assessments 18 months apart, involving 49 participants aged ≥ 60 years and of both sexes with a clinical diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. In data analysis, measures of central tendency, dispersion, proportions, paired Wilcoxon non-parametric test and multiple linear analysis were used. Results: In the follow-up assessment, there was an increase in frailty and impairment of functional capacity between the two assessments. Associated factors, such as instrumental activities of daily living and the total number of illnesses, had a negative impact on the participants' frailty. Discussion: The results found in the study converge with the scientific literature related to the association of chronic diseases such as Diabetes Mellitus with increased frailty. Conclusion: The presence of a chronic disease such as Diabetes Mellitus can cause increased frailty and compromise functionality. The assessment of these conditions in health services for early identification is essential to establish assertive strategies for maintaining aging with quality of life.

Introducción: La Diabetes Mellitus provoca una disminución de las reservas y capacidades funcionales. Su asociación con el síndrome de fragilidad conduce a un paulatino deterioro del sistema biológico, provocando un daño global a la salud de la población anciana y, por tanto, comprometiendo su calidad de vida. Objetivo: analizar la evolución de la fragilidad y factores asociados en personas mayores con Diabetes Mellitus. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio longitudinal caracterizado por dos evaluaciones con 18 meses de diferencia, involucrando a 49 participantes con edad ≥ 60 años y de ambos sexos con diagnóstico clínico de Diabetes Mellitus. En el análisis de los datos se utilizaron medidas de tendencia central, dispersión, proporciones, prueba no paramétrica de Wilcoxon pareada y análisis lineal múltiple. Resultados: En la evaluación de seguimiento, hubo un aumento de la fragilidad y el deterioro de la capacidad funcional entre las dos evaluaciones. Los factores asociados, como las actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria y el número total de enfermedades, tuvieron un impacto negativo en la fragilidad de los participantes. Discusión: Los resultados encontrados en el estudio convergen con la literatura científica relacionada con la asociación de enfermedades crónicas como la Diabetes Mellitus con mayor fragilidad. Conclusión: La presencia de una enfermedad crónica como la Diabetes Mellitus puede provocar aumento de fragilidad y comprometer la funcionalidad. La evaluación de estas condiciones en los servicios de salud para su identificación temprana es fundamental para establecer estrategias asertivas para mantener el envejecimiento con calidad de vida.

Post-Covid condition and clinic characteristics associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: a 2-year follow-up to Brazilian cases.

Until January 2023, Brazil recorded 37 million COVID-19 cases despite the decrease in mortality due to mass vaccination efforts against COVID-19. The infection continues to challenge researchers and health professionals with the persistent symptoms and onset manifestations after the acute phase of the disease, namely Post-Covid Condition (PCC). Being one of the countries with the highest infection rate, Brazil must prepare for a growing number of patients with chronic health consequences of COVID-19. Longitudinal studies that follow patients over extended periods are crucial in understanding the long-term impacts of COVID-19, including potential health consequences and the effects on quality of life. We describe the clinical profile of a cohort of COVID-19 patients infected during the first year of the pandemic in Brazil and a follow-up after two years to investigate the health impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The first wave of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil featured extensive drug misuse, notably the ineffective COVID kit comprised of ivermectin, antimalarials and azithromycin, and elevated in-hospital mortality. In the second phase of the study, Post-Covid Condition was reported by symptomatic COVID-19 subjects across different severity levels two years after infection. Long haulers are more likely to be women, previously hospitalized, and reported a range of symptoms from muscle pain to cognitive deficit. Our longitudinal study is essential to inform public health authorities to develop strategies and policies to control the spread of the virus and mitigate its impacts on society.

HLA-G Gene Variability Is Associated with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Morbidity and the HLA-G Protein Profile.

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is an immune checkpoint molecule that is highly expressed in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). The HLA-G gene presents several functional polymorphisms distributed across the coding and regulatory regions (5'URR: 5' upstream regulatory region and 3'UTR: 3' untranslated region) and some of them may impact HLA-G expression and human malignancy. To understand the contribution of the HLA-G genetic background in PTC, we studied the HLA-G gene variability in PTC patients in association with tumor morbidity, HLA-G tissue expression, and plasma soluble (sHLA-G) levels. We evaluated 185 PTC patients and 154 healthy controls. Polymorphic sites defining coding, regulatory and extended haplotypes were characterized by sequencing analyses. HLA-G tissue expression and plasma soluble HLA-G levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and ELISA, respectively. Compared to the controls, the G0104a(5'URR)G*01:04:04(coding)UTR-03(3'UTR) extended haplotype was underrepresented in the PTC patients, while G0104a(5'URR)G*01:04:01(coding)UTR-03(3'UTR) was less frequent in patients with metastatic and multifocal tumors. Decreased HLA-G tissue expression and undetectable plasma sHLA-G were associated with the G010102a(5'URR)G*01:01:02:01(coding)UTR-02(3'UTR) extended haplotype. We concluded that the HLA-G variability was associated with PTC development and morbidity, as well as the magnitude of the encoded protein expression at local and systemic levels.

BRAF, TERT and HLA-G Status in the Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Clinicopathological Association Study.

As BRAF, TERT, HLA-G, and microRNAs have been individually associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), we aimed to evaluate the individual and collaborative role of these markers in PTC in the same patient cohort. HLA-G and BRAF tumor expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Using molecular methods, BRAFV600E and TERT promoter mutations were evaluated in thyroid fine needle aspirates. MicroRNA tumor profiling was investigated using massively parallel sequencing. We observed strong HLA-G (67.96%) while BRAF (62.43%) staining was observed in PTC specimens. BRAF overexpression was associated with poor response to therapy. The BRAFV600E (52.9%) and TERTC228T (13%) mutations were associated with extrathyroidal extension, advanced-age, and advanced-stage cancer. The TERT rs2853669 CC+TC genotypes (38%) were overrepresented in metastatic tumors. Nine modulated microRNAs targeting the BRAF, TERT, and/or HLA-G genes were observed in PTC and involved with cancer-related signaling pathways. The markers were individually associated with PTC features, emphasizing the synergistic effect of BRAFV600E and TERTC228T; however, their collaborative role on PTC outcome was not fully demonstrated. The differentially expressed miRNAs targeting the BRAF and/or HLA-G genes may explain their increased expression in the tumor milieu.

Evaluation interaction of graphene oxide with heparin for antiviral blockade: a study of ab initio simulations, molecular docking, and experimental analysis.

CONTEXT: Heparin, one of the drugs reused in studies with antiviral activity, was chosen to investigate a possible blockade of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein for viral entry through computational simulations and experimental analysis. Heparin was associated to graphene oxide to increase in the binding affinity in biological system. First, the electronic and chemical interaction between the molecules was analyzed through ab initio simulations. Later, we evaluate the biological compatibility of the nanosystems, in the target of the spike protein, through molecular docking. The results show that graphene oxide interacts with the heparin with an increase in the affinity energy with the spike protein, indicating a possible increment in the antiviral activity. Experimental analysis of synthesis and morphology of the nanostructures were carried out, indicating heparin absorption by graphene oxide, confirming the results of the first principle simulations. Experimental tests were conducted on the structure and surface of the nanomaterial, confirming the heparin aggregation on the synthesis with a size between the GO layers of 7.44 Å, indicating a C-O type bond, and exhibiting a hydrophilic surface characteristic (36.2°). METHODS: Computational simulations of the ab initio with SIESTA code, LDA approximations, and an energy shift of 0.05 eV. Molecular docking simulations were performed in the AutoDock Vina software integrated with the AMDock Tools Software using the AMBER force field. GO, GO@2.5Heparin, and GO@5Heparin were synthesized by Hummers and impregnation methods, respectively, and characterized by X-ray diffraction and surface contact angle.

Concept Analysis of the Nursing Diagnosis of Impaired Spontaneous Ventilation in Critical Patients / Análisis de concepto del diagnóstico de la ventilación espontánea deteriorada en pacientes críticos / Análise conceitual do diagnóstico de ventilação espontânea prejudicada em pacientes críticos

Introduction: In nursing practice, this concept has been identified in studies that address the nursing diagnosis of impaired spontaneous ventilation. Nursing performance facing this unwanted human response is considered essential for the maintenance and control of vital signs, cardiovascular monitoring, gas exchange and respiratory pattern, as well as constant surveillance aimed at signs of hypoventilation and inadequate ventilation. Objective: To analyze the concept of impaired spontaneous ventilation in critically ill patients in an intensive care unit. Methodology: This study is a concept analysis, according to Walker's and Avant's method, conducted using an integrative review. All the referential steps were followed: concept selection, determining the objectives and proposals for concept analysis, identifying the possible uses of the concept, determining the defining attributes, identifying a model case, identifying a contrary case, and identifying the precedents and consequences of the concept. Results: A sample of 38 studies was selected. The following were identified as attributes: distress and fatigue, respiratory distress, tachycardia, hemodynamic instability, altered mental status, abnormal arterial blood gas results, dyspnea, anxiety, agitation, sweating, hypoxemia and hypercapnia. Antecedents: sex, age, oxygen saturation lower than 90%, diseases of the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, neuromuscular, and metabolic systems, respiratory infections, trauma, poisons, toxins, and sedatives. Consequences: increased heart rate, decreased partial oxygen saturation, increased use of respiratory muscles, dyspnea, increased metabolic rate and restlessness. The model case and the contrary case were used to illustrate the attributes, antecedents, and consequences. Conclusion: The study directed the strengthening of evidence about the phenomenon and demonstrated a strong occurrence in patients who need assistance in intensive care units, thus demanding critical care.

Introducción: en la práctica de enfermería, este concepto fue identificado en estudios que abordan el diagnóstico de la ventilación espontánea deteriorada. La actuación desde enfermería para enfrentar esta indeseada respuesta humana es esencial para el mantenimiento y el control de los signos vitales, el monitoreo cardiovascular, el intercambio de gases y el patrón de respiración, así como para la vigilancia constante de los signos de hipoventilación y ventilación inadecuada. Objetivo: analizar el concepto de ventilación espontánea deteriorada en pacientes críticos en una unidad de cuidado intensivo. Metodología: Este estudio es un análisis de concepto, de acuerdo con el método de Walker y Avant, conducido usando una revisión integrada. Se siguieron todos los pasos referenciales: selección del concepto, determinación de los objetivos y propuestas para el análisis de conceptos, identificación de los posibles usos del concepto, determinar los atributos definitorios, identificación del caso modelo, identificación del caso contrario e identificación de precedentes y consecuencias del concepto. Resultados: se seleccionó una muestra de 38 estudios. Se identificaron como atributos: angustia y fatiga, dificultad respiratoria, taquicardia, inestabilidad hemodinámica, estado mental alterado, gasometría arterial anormal, disnea, ansiedad, agitación, sudoración, hipoxemia e hipercapnia. Antecedentes: sexo; edad; saturación de oxígeno inferior al 90%; enfermedades de los sistemas respiratorio, cardiovascular, neurológico, gastrointestinal, neuromuscular y metabólico; infecciones respiratorias; traumatismos, y venenos, toxinas y sedantes. Consecuencias: aumento del ritmo cardíaco, disminución de la saturación parcial de oxígeno, aumento del uso de los músculos respiratorios, disnea, aumento del índice metabólico e inquietud. Se utilizaron el caso modelo y el caso contrario para ilustrar los atributos, antecedentes y consecuencias. Conclusión: el estudio dirigió el fortalecimiento de la evidencia sobre el fenómeno y demostró una fuerte ocurrencia en pacientes que necesitan asistencia en unidades de cuidados intensivos, quienes requieren, en consecuencia, de cuidados críticos.

Introdução: na prática da enfermagem, esse conceito foi identificado em estudos que abordaram o diagnóstico de ventilação espontânea prejudicada. A atuação da enfermagem para enfrentar essa resposta humana indesejável é essencial para a manutenção e o controle dos sinais vitais, da monitorização cardiovascular, das trocas gasosas e do padrão respiratório, bem como para a vigilância constante dos sinais de hipoventilação e ventilação inadequada. Objetivo: analisar o conceito de ventilação espontânea prejudicada em pacientes graves internados em uma unidade de terapia intensiva. Materiais e método: este estudo é uma análise conceitual, de acordo com o método de Walker e Avant, realizada por meio de uma revisão integrada. Todas as etapas referenciais foram seguidas: seleção do conceito, determinação dos objetivos e proposições para a análise do conceito, identificação dos possíveis usos do conceito, determinação dos atributos definidores, identificação do caso-modelo, identificação do contracaso e identificação dos precedentes e consequências do conceito. Resultados: foi selecionada uma amostra de 38 estudos. Os atributos identificados foram angústia e fadiga, angústia respiratória, taquicardia, instabilidade hemodinâmica, estado mental alterado, gases sanguíneos arteriais anormais, dispneia, ansiedade, agitação, sudorese, hipoxemia e hipercapnia. Antecedentes: sexo; idade; saturação de oxigênio inferior a 90%; doenças dos sistemas respiratório, cardiovascular, neurológico, gastrointestinal, neuromuscular e metabólico; infecções respiratórias; trauma; e venenos, toxinas e sedativos. Consequências: aumento da frequência cardíaca, diminuição da saturação parcial de oxigênio, aumento do uso dos músculos respiratórios, dispneia, aumento da taxa metabólica e inquietação. O caso-modelo e o caso oposto foram usados para ilustrar os atributos, os antecedentes e as consequências. Conclusões: o estudo teve como objetivo fortalecer as evidências sobre o fenômeno e demonstrou uma forte ocorrência em pacientes que necessitam de assistência em unidades de terapia intensiva e que, consequentemente, requerem cuidados críticos.