Association of ß-globin polymorphisms and tolerance to haemonchosis in ewes and lambs of different sheep breeds.

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), especially Haemonchus contortus, represent a significant challenge for sheep production. Given the global concern about GIN anthelmintic resistance, alternative control methods able to reduce the dependence on these drugs are highly advisable. Since previous studies have shown that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of ß-globin are more resistant to H. contortus, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the different haplotypes (Hb-AA, Hb-AB and Hb-BB) and phenotypes in Santa Inês (SI), Texel (TX) and White Dorper (DO) breeds infected with H. contortus. Blood samples were collected from 180 ewes and 123 lambs of the three breeds for DNA extraction followed by qPCR using a hydrolysis probe to identify the ß-globin haplotypes. Phenotypic data, including fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), FAMACHA score and body condition score for ewes and lambs, as well as weight gain for lambs, were collected. The genotypic frequencies of ß-globin for ewes and lambs were, respectively: 21.7% and 21.4% Hb-AA, 50% and 50% Hb-AB and 28.3% and 28.6% Hb-BB in SI; 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 18.6% and 9.4% Hb-AB and 81.4% and 90.6% Hb-BB in TX; and 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 13.1% and 0% Hb-AB and 86.9% and 100% Hb-BB in DO. In ewes, mean PCV differed (p<0.05) between the three haplotypes, with higher PCV in Hb-AA animals, followed by Hb-AB and Hb-BB. When considering each breed separately, SI Hb-AA ewes presented higher PCV (p<0.05), highlighting that even in a breed already considered resistant, animals with Hb-AA haplotype showed superior performance. Lambs with the Hb-AA haplotype exhibited a higher (p<0.05) mean PCV compared to those with Hb-AB and Hb-BB. The same pattern was found in SI when analyzing each breed separately. No significant association was found between ß-globin haplotypes and FEC, FAMACHA score, body condition score, or weight gain. Nevertheless, given that anemia is the major clinical sign of haemonchosis, our findings on PCV reinforce that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of ß-globin are more tolerant to haemonchosis. This study may support the development of a valuable tool, targeting genetic selection for GIN control, reducing the dependence on anthelmintics and boosting sheep production worldwide.

Intestinal GCN2 controls Drosophila systemic growth in response to Lactiplantibacillus plantarum symbiotic cues encoded by r/tRNA operons.

Symbiotic bacteria interact with their host through symbiotic cues. Here, we took advantage of the mutualism between Drosophila and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Lp) to investigate a novel mechanism of host-symbiont interaction. Using chemically defined diets, we found that association with Lp improves the growth of larvae-fed amino acid-imbalanced diets, even though Lp cannot produce the limiting amino acid. We show that in this context Lp supports its host's growth through a molecular dialogue that requires functional operons encoding ribosomal and transfer RNAs (r/tRNAs) in Lp and the general control nonderepressible 2 (GCN2) kinase in Drosophila's enterocytes. Our data indicate that Lp's r/tRNAs are packaged in extracellular vesicles and activate GCN2 in a subset of larval enterocytes, a mechanism necessary to remodel the intestinal transcriptome and ultimately to support anabolic growth. Based on our findings, we propose a novel beneficial molecular dialogue between host and microbes, which relies on a non-canonical role of GCN2 as a mediator of non-nutritional symbiotic cues encoded by r/tRNA operons.

Thymol and eugenol against Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato engorged females: Biological, histopathological and bioinformatic analysis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive biology and histopathology of the ovaries of engorged females of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato exposed to combinations of thymol and eugenol, as well as to evaluate in silico the possible interactions of thymol and eugenol in tick cell membranes. To evaluate the tick reproductive biology, the adult immersion test (AIT) was performed, in which the engorged females were immersed in solutions of thymol and eugenol, combined or alone, at concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL. Two control groups (water and 3% DMSO) were also performed. The ticks were kept in a controlled chamber (B.O.D - 27 ± 1 °C and 80% ± 5% RH) to evaluate egg production and viability. To perform the ovaries histopathological evaluation, females were immersed in combination of thymol and eugenol (each at 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL) and control (water and 3% DMSO) solutions. After immersion, the females were kept in B.O.D (27 ± 1 °C and RH of 80% ± 5%) for four days, they were dissected and the ovaries processed for histological analysis. In addition, an in silico analysis was performed using PASS online® software to predict probability activity (PA) of thymol and eugenol in cell membranes. The treatment with the combination of thymol and eugenol (each at 5.0 mg/mL) caused a reduction (p < 0.01) in oviposition, while the treatments with thymol (5.0 mg/mL) and combination of thymol and eugenol (5.0 mg/mL) reduced (p < 0.05) the egg viability. The treatment with combination of thymol and eugenol (5.0 mg/mL) resulted in a control percentage of 99.9%, while in the other treatments, control percentages below 56% were observed. Oocytes from the females exposed to the combinations of thymol and eugenol (each compound at 2.5 mg/mL) showed histopathological changes, except on oocyte V, while those treated with these compounds alone at 2.5 mg/mL, did not reveal any change. Changes in the shape of the oocyte, presence of vacuoles in the cytoplasm and germinal vesicle, reduction and fusion of yolk granules and rupture of some oocytes were observed. In silico analysis, showed that these compounds can act as membrane permeability inhibitors, membrane permeability agonists, membrane integrity antagonists and apoptosis agonists. We conclude that the combination of thymol and eugenol causes changes in the reproductive biology and morphophysiology of engorged females oocytes. The in silico analysis using thymol and eugenol revealed the possibility of disorganization in the cell membranes, a fact that may explain the histopathological alterations observed.

Structure-function analysis of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DltE reveals D-alanylated lipoteichoic acids as direct cues supporting Drosophila juvenile growth.

Metazoans establish mutually beneficial interactions with their resident microorganisms. However, our understanding of the microbial cues contributing to host physiology remains elusive. Previously, we identified a bacterial machinery encoded by the dlt operon involved in Drosophila melanogaster's juvenile growth promotion by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Here, using crystallography combined with biochemical and cellular approaches, we investigate the physiological role of an uncharacterized protein (DltE) encoded by this operon. We show that lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) but not wall teichoic acids are D-alanylated in Lactiplantibacillus plantarumNC8 cell envelope and demonstrate that DltE is a D-Ala carboxyesterase removing D-Ala from LTA. Using the mutualistic association of L. plantarumNC8 and Drosophila melanogaster as a symbiosis model, we establish that D-alanylated LTAs (D-Ala-LTAs) are direct cues supporting intestinal peptidase expression and juvenile growth in Drosophila. Our results pave the way to probing the contribution of D-Ala-LTAs to host physiology in other symbiotic models.

Microbe-mediated intestinal NOD2 stimulation improves linear growth of undernourished infant mice.

The intestinal microbiota is known to influence postnatal growth. We previously found that a strain of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (strain LpWJL) buffers the adverse effects of chronic undernutrition on the growth of juvenile germ-free mice. Here, we report that LpWJL sustains the postnatal growth of malnourished conventional animals and supports both insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin production and activity. We have identified cell walls isolated from LpWJL, as well as muramyl dipeptide and mifamurtide, as sufficient cues to stimulate animal growth despite undernutrition. Further, we found that NOD2 is necessary in intestinal epithelial cells for LpWJL-mediated IGF-1 production and for postnatal growth promotion in malnourished conventional animals. These findings indicate that, coupled with renutrition, bacteria cell walls or purified NOD2 ligands have the potential to alleviate stunting.

Graphene-Type Materials for the Dispersive Solid-Phase Extraction Step in the QuEChERS Method for the Extraction of Brominated Flame Retardants from Capsicum Cultivars.

A new application of graphene-type materials as an alternative cleanup sorbent in a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) procedure combined with GC-ECD/GC-MS/GC-MS/MS detection was successfully used for the simultaneous analysis of 12 brominated flame retardants in Capsicum cultivar samples. The chemical, structural, and morphological properties of the graphene-type materials were evaluated. The materials exhibited good adsorption capability of matrix interferents without compromising the extraction efficiency of target analytes when compared with other cleanups using commercial sorbents. Under optimal conditions, excellent recoveries were obtained, ranging from 90 to 108% with relative standard deviations of <14%. The developed method showed good linearity with a correlation coefficient above 0.9927, and the limits of quantification were in the range of 0.35-0.82 µg/kg. The developed QuEChERS procedure using reduced graphite oxide (rGO) combined with GC/MS was successfully applied in 20 samples, and the pentabromotoluene residues were quantified in two samples.

From the laboratory to the field: efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes to control the cattle tick.

BACKGROUND: The control of ticks is challenged by the resistance of tick populations to chemical acaricides. In this study, we evaluated, under laboratory conditions, the efficacy of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus engorged females with varying body weights (150, 200, 250, 300 or 350 mg per female) or from eight different geographical populations. We also determined the efficacy of H. bacteriophora for tick control under field conditions. RESULTS: R. microplus engorged females with varying body weights exposed to 150 juveniles of H. bacteriophora resulted in a high control efficacy (97.5% to 98.4%). Tests with females from different geographical populations comprised eight tick strains treated with H. bacteriophora and their respective control groups. The biological parameters of females exposed to nematode treatments did not differ significantly and resulted in 89% to 99% of control efficacy. Trials conducted under field conditions were performed in field plots with Megathyrsus maximus grass. Treatment groups received eight cadavers of Tenebrio molitor fully colonized with H. bacteriophora at 1 week prior to the release of female ticks, whereas control groups were untreated. On the first day of the experiment, six engorged females were distributed in each plot. On day 42 and day 63, the apical portion of the grasses with R. microplus larvae were collected and quantified. The population of R. microplus larvae was reduced up to 73.1% in plots treated with H. bacteriophora at day 63 after treatment. CONCLUSION: R. microplus engorged females with varying body weights or from different geographical populations were highly susceptible to H. bacteriophora. The field test demonstrated the efficacy of H. bacteriophora in reducing R. microplus larvae in infested pastures. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

DltC acts as an interaction hub for AcpS, DltA and DltB in the teichoic acid D-alanylation pathway of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.

Teichoic acids (TA) are crucial for the homeostasis of the bacterial cell wall as well as their developmental behavior and interplay with the environment. TA can be decorated by different modifications, modulating thus their biochemical properties. One major modification consists in the esterification of TA by D-alanine, a process known as D-alanylation. TA D-alanylation is performed by the Dlt pathway, which starts in the cytoplasm and continues extracellularly after D-Ala transportation through the membrane. In this study, we combined structural biology and in vivo approaches to dissect the cytoplasmic steps of this pathway in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, a bacterial species conferring health benefits to its animal host. After establishing that AcpS, DltB, DltC1 and DltA are required for the promotion of Drosophila juvenile growth under chronic undernutrition, we solved their crystal structure and/or used NMR and molecular modeling to study their interactions. Our work demonstrates that the suite of interactions between these proteins is ordered with a conserved surface of DltC1 docking sequentially AcpS, DltA and eventually DltB. Altogether, we conclude that DltC1 acts as an interaction hub for all the successive cytoplasmic steps of the TA D-alanylation pathway.

Effect of the formulation with fipronil and fluazuron on the reproductive biology and ovaries histopathology of Rhipicephalus microplus engorged females.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a commercial formulation containing fipronil and fluazuron on the reproductive biology and the morphology of ovaries from Rhipicephalus microplus engorged females. To carry out the study, three calves were artificially infested every 3 days with approximately 5000 larvae. On day 0, the animals were treated with a commercial formulation containing fipronil (1.25 mg/kg) + fluazuron (2.5 mg/kg). Before the application of the acaricide, engorged females of R. microplus were collected to constitute the control group (10 for biology analyses and 20 for histology analyses). After applying the commercial formulation, naturally detached engorged females were recovered on days + 5, + 10, and + 20 (10 engorged females/day) to evaluate their reproductive biology, and on days + 4, + 12, and + 20 (20 engorged females/day) for histological evaluation of the ovaries. Females from the treated groups produced smaller amounts of eggs, exhibiting lower viability when compared to eggs from the control group (p < 0.05). The ovaries of females from all treated groups (+ 4, + 12, and + 20) showed morphological changes, including: cytoplasmic disorganization, cytoplasmic degradation, irregular shape of the oocyte and germinal vesicle, reduction and vacuolization of yolk granules and oocyte disruption. Oocytes were observed in smaller numbers in all stages of development (I, II, III, IV, and V) and greater numbers of indeterminate oocytes were verified in the ovaries of the treated groups when compared to the control group. Therefore, results showed that the commercial formulation containing fipronil and fluazuron affected the reproductive biology, caused morphological changes in the ovaries, and reduced the number of oocytes in R. microplus engorged females.

Unplanned Transfers From Intermediate Care Units to Intensive Care Units: A Cohort Study.

This study evaluated unplanned transfers from the intermediate care unit (IMCU) to the intensive care unit (ICU) among urgent admissions. This retrospective, observational study was conducted in 2 ICUs and 1 IMCU. Three patterns of urgent admission were assessed: admissions to the ICU only, admissions to the IMCU only, and admissions to the IMCU with subsequent transfer to the ICU. Of 5296 admissions analyzed, 1396 patients (26.4%) were initially admitted to the IMCU. Of these, 172 (12.3%) were transferred from the IMCU to the ICU. Mortality was higher in patients transferred from the IMCU to the ICU than in the 3900 ICU-only patients (odds ratio, 3.22; 95% CI, 1.52-6.80). Most transfers from the IMCU to the ICU (135; 78.5%) were due to deterioration of the condition for which the patient was admitted. Patient transfers from the IMCU to the ICU were common, were associated with increased hospital mortality, and were mostly due to deterioration in the condition that was the reason for admission.

Rhamnolipids and essential oils in the control of mosquito-borne tropical diseases.

The diseases transmitted by mosquito vectors are a great public health issue. Thus, effective vector control becomes the main strategy to reduce their prevalence. However, insecticide resistance has become a huge concern for the mitigation of mosquitoes; here, we propose the use of rhamnolipids in emulsion with clove oil against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. The toxicity of rhamnolipids and clove oil to two species of mosquitoes transmitting tropical diseases was investigated. After 24 h, the LC50 was 140 mg/L when rhamnolipids were used and 154 mg/L when clove oil was used against Aedes aegypti larvae. In the case of Culex quinquefasciatus, the LC50 was 130 mg/L for rhamnolipids and 19 mg/L for clove oil. When the concentrations of the upper limits of one of the solutions (rhamnolipid or clove oil) were mixed, 100% mortality was obtained after 24 h. The bioassay of insecticidal action for solutions of rhamnolipids and clove oil in the lower limit, upper limit, and lethal concentration 50 to determine the effect on 50% of the population (KD50) achieved low results from KD50 to the upper limit compared to the other concentrations for both Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. The rhamnolipids and clove oil at the upper limit concentration had the greatest repellent activity against the two mosquito species. Bioassays using different concentrations of rhamnolipids revealed variations in the morphology of the intestinal epithelium (800 mg/L). A concentration of 900 mg/L led to the most severe morphological changes in the organization of the epithelium and the cells lining the intestines of these larvae. When larvae were exposed to a concentration of 1000 mg/L, the marginalization of chromatin in the nucleus of epithelial cells was very severe, indicating the onset of cell death.Key points• The toxicity of rhamnolipids and clove oil has a larvicidal, insecticidal, and repellent effect.• The combination of concentrations of these compounds enhances their action.• Different concentrations of rhamnolipids led to severe morphological changes in the organization of the epithelium and the cells and the intestines of larvae.

El cuidado humanizado en oncología pediátrica y la aplicación del juego por la enfermería / Humanised care in paediatric oncology and the application of play by nurses

Resumen Objetivo: Discutir el cuidado humanizado en oncología pediátrica, entendiendo la percepción y aplicación del juego por parte del equipo de enfermería. Método: Este fue un estudio cualitativo realizado con 13 profesionales del equipo de enfermería de un hospital oncológico brasileño. Los datos fueron recopilados de octubre de 2017 a febrero de 2018, a través de un guion de entrevista. Resultados: Se elaboraron tres categorías: el significado del cuidado en oncología pediátrica para el equipo de enfermería, percepción del juego para el equipo de enfermería en el cuidado de niños y niñas con cáncer y estrategias que contribuyen a la aplicación del juego en el cuidado. Estas últimas indicaban que el juego es una herramienta importante que favorece la comunicación, permitir la expresión de sentimientos y permiten el rescate del mundo infantil. Conclusión: Los profesionales de enfermería perciben la importancia del uso de estrategias lúdicas en el cuidado en oncología pediátrica, ya que permiten la aproximación de las niñas y los niños con el mundo infantil. Para ello, se evidenció la importancia del uso de las tecnologías leves y duras en la atención, permitiendo el ejercicio de la humanización.

Abstract Objective: To discuss humanised care in paediatric oncology, understanding the perception and application of the game by the nursing team. Methods: This was a qualitative study carried out with 13 professionals from the nursing team of a Brazilian oncology hospital. The data was collected from October 2017 to February 2018, through an interview script. Results: Three categories were developed: the meaning of care in paediatric oncology for the nursing team, perception of play for the nursing team in the care of children with cancer and strategies that contribute to the application of play in care. The latter indicated that play is an important tool that promotes communication, allows the expression of feelings and allows the rescue of the child's world. Conclusion: Nursing professionals perceive the importance of the use of playful strategies in paediatric oncology care, since they allow the approach of children to the child's world. For this purpose, the importance of the use of light and hard technologies in the care was evidenced, allowing the exercise of humanization.

Resumo Objetivo: Discutir o cuidado humanizado em oncologia pediátrica, compreendendo a percepção e aplicação do lúdico pela equipe de enfermagem. Métodos: Este foi um estudo qualitativo realizado com 13 profissionais da equipe de enfermagem de um hospital de oncologia brasileiro. Os dados foram coletados entre Outubro de 2017 e Fevereiro de 2018, através de entrevista guiada por um roteiro. Resultados: Foram elaboradas três categorias: o significado dos cuidados em oncologia pediátrica para a equipe de enfermagem, a percepção do jogo para a equipe de enfermagem no cuidado de crianças com câncer e estratégias que contribuem para a aplicação do lúdico nos cuidados. Este último indicou que o jogo é um instrumento importante que favorece a comunicação, permite a expressão de sentimentos e permite o resgate do mundo da criança. Conclusão: Os profissionais de enfermagem percebem a importância da utilização de estratégias lúdicas nos cuidados oncológicos pediátricos, uma vez que permitem a aproximação ao mundo da criança. Para tal, foi evidenciada a importância do uso de tecnologias leves e duras nos cuidados, permitindo o exercício da humanização.

Necesidades de cuidado dentro del hospital del cuidador de personas con cancer / Care Needs of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer during Inpatient Stay / Necessidades de cuidado no âmbito hospitalar do cuidador de pessoas com câncer

Resumen Introducción La existencia de un paciente con cáncer en el seno de la familia implica desafíos y lleva a una necesidad de reorganización de la dinámica familiar para la prestación de cuidados, lo que puede provocar la negligencia de los auto-cuidados del cuidador, además de las necesidades de segundarización dentro del hospital, durante la hospitalización del ente enfermo. Objetivo comprender qué cuidados los familiares cuidadores de personas con cáncer gustarían recibir en el hospital. Materiales y Métodos estudio cualitativo, realizado en un hospital de cáncer de Brasil, con 14 familiares, en 2019. Las entrevistas fueron cerradas en el momento en que existía la saturación de datos y analizadas por la técnica de Análisis de Contenido. La investigación cumple con los aspectos éticos. Resultados la primera categoría reveló el acogimiento, las competencias de actitud del equipo, la asistencia psicológica y la casa de apoyo como medidas importantes que la institución ofrece a los cuidadores. La segunda categoría mostró qué cuidados los familiares gustarían recibir, y los testimonios revelaron la transferencia del cuidado de sí mismo a los demás, y aún las demandas de cuidado físico, espiritual y psicológico. Discusión es evidente que existe un acercamiento entre lo que el cuidador espera de la institución estudiada como cuidado de sí mismo, con la asistencia ofrecida. Conclusiones el estudio señala la necesidad de planificar estrategias de apoyo a los familiares cuidadores en el entorno hospitalario, además de grupos de apoyo interdisciplinario y apoyo psicológico continuo.

Abstract Introduction Having a patient with cancer in the family entails challenges leading to a need to reorganize family dynamics to provide care, which may result in neglecting caregiver's self-care and their needs at the hospital during inpatient stay. Objective To understand how family caregivers would like to be cared for during hospital stay. Materials and Methods A qualitative research was conducted with 14 family members in a Brazilian oncology hospital in 2019. Interviews were ended upon data saturation and later analyzed using the Content analysis method. Ethical aspects were considered in this research. Results The first category showed that welcoming, attitudinal competencies of the healthcare team, psychological support and home support are considered important measures that healthcare centers can provide caregivers. The second category identified how family members would like to be cared for through interviews, revealing care transference from oneself to the care of another, as well as physical, spiritual and psychological care demands. Discussion Our understanding is that care expectations of caregivers in the above healthcare center are close to the actual assistance offered to them. Conclusions A need for planning support strategies for family caregivers during inpatient stay has been pointed out in this study, in addition to the importance of interdisciplinary support groups and continuous psychological support that cover family members as part of these care programs.

Resumo Introdução A existência de um doente com câncer no seio familiar implica em desafios e conduz a uma necessidade de reorganização da dinâmica familiar para prestação de cuidados, o que pode ocasionar, na negligência do autocuidado do cuidador, além da secundarização das necessidades deste no âmbito hospitalar, durante internação do ente adoecido. O objetivo é compreender como os familiares cuidadores de pessoas com câncer gostariam de ser cuidados no cenário hospitalar. Materiais e Métodos pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em um hospital oncológico brasileiro, com 14 familiares, em 2019. As entrevistas foram encerradas no momento em que houve saturação de dados, e analisadas pela técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. A pesquisa respeitou os aspectos éticos. Resultados a primeira categoria revelou que o acolhimento, competências atitudinais da equipe, acompanhamento psicológico e a casa de apoio como medidas importantes que a instituição oferece aos cuidadores. A segunda categoria apresentou como os familiares gostariam de ser cuidados, e os depoimentos revelaram a transferência do cuidado de si para o outro, e ainda demandas de cuidado no âmbito físico, espiritual e psicológico. Discussão depreende-se que existe uma aproximação entre o que o cuidador espera da instituição estudada como cuidado para si, com a assistência que lhe é oferecida. Conclusões O estudo apontou para a necessidade de planejamento de estratégias de apoio aos familiares cuidadores no âmbito hospitalar, além de grupos de apoio interdisciplinares e suporte psicológico contínuo, incluindo os familiares no plano de cuidados.

Necesidades de cuidado dentro del hospital del cuidador de personas con cancer / Care Needs of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer during Inpatient Stay

Introducción: La existencia de un paciente con cáncer en el seno de la familia implica desafíos y lleva a una necesidad de reorganización de la dinámica familiar para la prestación de cuidados, lo que puede provocar la negligencia de los auto-cuidados del cuidador, además de las necesidades de segundarización dentro del hospital, durante la hospitalización del ente enfermo. Objetivo: comprender qué cuidados los familiares cuidadores de personas con cáncer gustarían recibir en el hospital. Materiales y Métodos: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un hospital de cáncer de Brasil, con 14 familiares, en 2019. Las entrevistas fueron cerradas en el momento en que existía la saturación de datos y analizadas por la técnica de Análisis de Contenido. La investigación cumple con los aspectos éticos. Resultados: la primera categoría reveló el acogimiento, las competencias de actitud del equipo, la asistencia psicológica y la casa de apoyo como medidas importantes que la institución ofrece a los cuidadores. La segunda categoría mostró qué cuidados los familiares gustarían recibir, y los testimonios revelaron la transferencia del cuidado de sí mismo a los demás, y aún las demandas de cuidado físico, espiritual y psicológico. Discusión: es evidente que existe un acercamiento entre lo que el cuidador espera de la institución estudiada como cuidado de sí mismo, con la asistencia ofrecida. Conclusiones: el estudio señala la necesidad de planificar estrategias de apoyo a los familiares cuidadores en el entorno hospitalario, además de grupos de apoyo interdisciplinario y apoyo psicológico continuo.

Introduction: Having a patient with cancer in the family entails challenges leading to a need to reorganize family dynamics to provide care, which may result in neglecting caregiver's self-care and their needs at the hospital during inpatient stay. Objective: To understand how family caregivers would like to be cared for during hospital stay. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research was conducted with 14 family members in a Brazilian oncology hospital in 2019. Interviews were ended upon data saturation and later analyzed using the Content analysis method. Ethical aspects were considered in this research. Results: The first category showed that welcoming, attitudinal competencies of the healthcare team, psychological support and home support are considered important measures that healthcare centers can provide caregivers. The second category identified how family members would like to be cared for through interviews, revealing care transference from oneself to the care of another, as well as physical, spiritual and psychological care demands. Discussion: Our understanding is that care expectations of caregivers in the above healthcare center are close to the actual assistance offered to them. Conclusions: A need for planning support strategies for family caregivers during inpatient stay has been pointed out in this study, in addition to the importance of interdisciplinary support groups and continuous psychological support that cover family members as part of these care programs.

Introdução: A existência de um doente com câncer no seio familiar implica em desafios e conduz a uma necessidade de reorganização da dinâmica familiar para prestação de cuidados, o que pode ocasionar, na negligência do autocuidado do cuidador, além da secundarização das necessidades deste no âmbito hospitalar, durante internação do ente adoecido. O objetivo é compreender como os familiares cuidadores de pessoas com câncer gostariam de ser cuidados no cenário hospitalar. Materiais e Métodos: pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em um hospital oncológico brasileiro, com 14 familiares, em 2019. As entrevistas foram encerradas no momento em que houve saturação de dados, e analisadas pela técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. A pesquisa respeitou os aspectos éticos. Resultados: a primeira categoria revelou que o acolhimento, competências atitudinais da equipe, acompanhamento psicológico e a casa de apoio como medidas importantes que a instituição oferece aos cuidadores. A segunda categoria apresentou como os familiares gostariam de ser cuidados, e os depoimentos revelaram a transferência do cuidado de si para o outro, e ainda demandas de cuidado no âmbito físico, espiritual e psicológico. Discussão: depreende-se que existe uma aproximação entre o que o cuidador espera da instituição estudada como cuidado para si, com a assistência que lhe é oferecida. Conclusões: O estudo apontou para a necessidade de planejamento de estratégias de apoio aos familiares cuidadores no âmbito hospitalar, além de grupos de apoio interdisciplinares e suporte psicológico contínuo, incluindo os familiares no plano de cuidados.

Metal Oxide (Co3O4 and Mn3O4) Impregnation into S, N-doped Graphene for Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR).

To address aggravating environmental and energy problems, active, efficient, low-cost, and robust electrocatalysts (ECs) are actively pursued as substitutes for the current noble metal ECs. Therefore, in this study, we report the preparation of graphene flakes (GF) doped with S and N using 2-5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (S3N2) as precursor followed by the immobilization of cobalt spinel oxide (Co3O4) or manganese spinel oxide (Mn3O4) nanoparticles through a one-step co-precipitation procedure (Co/S3N2-GF and Mn/S3N2-GF). Characterization by different physicochemical techniques (Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD)) of both composites shows the preservation of the metal oxide spinel structure and further confirms the successful preparation of the envisaged electrocatalysts. Co/S3N2-GF composite exhibits the best ORR performance with an onset potential of 0.91 V vs. RHE, a diffusion-limiting current density of -4.50 mA cm-2 and selectivity for the direct four-electron pathway, matching the results obtained for commercial Pt/C. Moreover, both Co/S3N2-GF and Mn/S3N2-GF showed excellent tolerance to methanol poisoning and good stability.

Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin as a potential cross-protective tick vaccine against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus.

Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, the brown ear tick, is an important disease vector of livestock in eastern, central and southern Africa. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus acaricide resistance requires the search for alternative methods for its control. Cystatins constitute a superfamily of cysteine peptidase inhibitors vital for tick blood feeding and development. These inhibitors were proposed as antigens in anti-tick vaccines. In this work, we applied structural and biochemical approaches to characterize a new cystatin named R. appendiculatus cystatin 2a (Racys2a). Structural modeling showed that this new protein possesses characteristic type 2 cystatin motifs, besides conservation of other structural patterns along the protein. Peptidase inhibitory assays with recombinant Racys2a showed modulation of tick and host cathepsins involved in blood digestion and immune system responses, respectively. A heterologous tick challenge with R. appendiculatus in rabbits immunized with recombinant Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin 2c (rBmcys2c) was performed to determine cross-reactivity. Histological staining showed that rBmcys2c vaccination caused damage to the gut, salivary gland and ovary tissues in R. appendiculatus. Furthermore, cystatin vaccine reduced the number of fully engorged adult females in 11.5 %. Consequently, strategies to increase the protection rate are necessary, including the selection of two or more antigens to compose a vaccine cocktail.

Thymol: Effects on reproductive biology and Gene's organ morphology in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato engorged females (Acari: Ixodidae).

Thymol is a monoterpene with proven acaricidal activity on different tick species and life stages. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of thymol on the reproductive biology of engorged females of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato and the morphological changes caused in the cells of the tubular and accessory glands of Gené's organ. The females were exposed to thymol by immersion. Seven groups were established: group I (distilled water), group II (30% ethanol), group III (thymol 1.25 mg/mL), group IV (thymol 2.5 mg/mL), group V (thymol 5.0 mg/mL), group VI (thymol 10.0 mg/mL), and group VII (thymol 20.0 mg/mL), with 20 replicates for each treatment. The ticks were kept in a BOD incubator at 27 ±â€¯1 °C and RH > 80 ±â€¯10%. Ten females from each group were evaluated daily until death, and the remaining ten were kept in the incubator under the same conditions for five days and then dissected for the removal of Gené's organ to note possible damage to cell morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) techniques. Thymol demonstrated 63% and 98% efficacy in groups VI (10.0 mg/mL) and VII (20.0 mg/mL), respectively. In these groups, the cells of the tubular and accessory glands of Gené's organ showed signs of damage: irregular eosin staining, rupture and deformation of the cellular limit, presence of fragmented nuclei, changes in cytoplasmic homogeneity and areas with deformation (folds) in the basal region.

Combination of thymol and eugenol for the control of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato: Evaluation of synergism on immature stages and formulation development.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the combination of thymol with eugenol has a synergistic effect on the immature life stages of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), to evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of using these compounds in combination, and to develop a formulation combining thymol with eugenol with activity on immature stages of R. sanguineus s.l. To evaluate synergism, thymol and eugenol, combined (ratio 1:1) or not, were tested at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL on unfed larvae and nymphs using a larval packet test, and 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5.0 and 10 mg/mL on engorged larvae and nymphs using an immersion test. A cost estimate was calculated to produce 1 L of a solution containing a concentration of thymol and eugenol, combined or not, that could cause a tick mortality rate greater than 95 %. Finally, a formulation was developed, consisting of a micellar dispersion containing polymers (MDP), with thymol + eugenol (1:1), at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL, and the activity was evaluated on unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. For unfed larvae and nymphs, concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL and 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg/mL, respectively, presented synergistic effects. In tests with engorged larvae and nymphs, respective concentrations of 0.625, 1.25 and 2.5 mg/mL and 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL had synergistic effects. The estimated costs for producing a solution of 1 L with efficacy greater than 95 % was $5.97 using only thymol (15 mg/mL), $ 5.93 using only eugenol (15 mg/mL), and $ 3.97 using thymol + eugenol (1:1 - 5,0 mg/mL). In tests with MDP, the combination of thymol + eugenol resulted in a mortality rate higher than 95 % at concentration of 10 mg/mL for unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. Thus, the combination of thymol + eugenol, depending on the concentration, has synergistic effects and this combination lowers the cost for the active ingredients thymol and eugenol. The combination of thymol + eugenol in MDP had acaricidal activity against immature life stages of R. sanguineus s.l.

Incidência de lesão por pressão em pacientes internados e fatores de risco associados / Incidencia de las lesiones por presión en los pacientes hospitalizados y los factores de riesgo asociados / Incidence of pressure injury in hospitalized patients and associated risk factors

Objetivo avaliar incidência de lesão por pressão em pacientes internados em unidades de internação e fatores de riscos associados. Método estudo prospectivo, longitudinal, observacional. Os dados foram coletados por 60 dias consecutivos, utilizando-se formulário próprio, inspeção da pele, prontuário e prescrição médica. A análise foi realizada por estatística descritiva, teste de qui-quadrado e teste exato de Fisher. Resultados amostra constituída de 70 pacientes: 65,7% idosos, 30,0% diabéticos e 61,4% hipertensos. A incidência de lesão por pressão foi de 24,3% e houve associação estatisticamente significante entre uso de fraldas, mobilidade física prejudicada e mudança de decúbito. Quanto à classificação de Braden, 70,6% apresentaram risco severo e 64,7% das lesões foram classificadas como estágio I. Conclusão a imobilidade, o uso de fraldas e risco severo no momento da admissão foram encontrados nos pacientes que desenvolveram lesão.

Objetivo evaluar la incidencia de las lesiones por presión en los pacientes hospitalizados en unidades de internación y los factores de riesgo asociados. Método estudio prospectivo, longitudinal y de observación. Los datos se reunieron durante 60 días consecutivos, utilizando el formulario adecuado, la inspección de la piel, el cuadro médico y la prescripción médica. El análisis se realizó mediante estadísticas descriptivas, la prueba de chi-cuadrado y la prueba exacta de Fisher. Resultados muestra compuesta por 70 pacientes: 65,7% ancianos, 30,0% diabéticos y 61,4% hipertensos. La incidencia de lesiones por presión fue del 24,3% y hubo una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre el uso de pañales, el deterioro de la movilidad física y el cambio de decúbito. En cuanto a la clasificación de Braden, el 70,6% presentaba un riesgo grave y el 64,7% de las lesiones se clasificaron como etapa I. Conclusión la inmovilidad, el uso de pañales y el riesgo grave en el momento de la admisión se encontraron en pacientes que desarrollaron lesión.

Objective to evaluate the incidence of pressure injuries in patients admitted to hospital and associated risk factors. Method prospective, longitudinal, observational study. The data were collected for 60 consecutive days, using the proper form, skin inspection, medical chart and prescription. The analysis was performed by descriptive statistics, chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Results sample consisting of 70 patients: 65.7% elderly, 30.0% diabetics and 61.4% hypertensive. The incidence of pressure injury was 24.3% and there was a statistically significant association between diaper use, impaired physical mobility and decubitus change. As for Braden's classification, 70.6% presented severe risk and 64.7% of the injuries were classified as stage I. Conclusion immobility, use of diapers and severe risk at the time of admission were found in patients who developed injury.

Fitness Restoration of a Genetically Tractable Enterococcus faecalis V583 Derivative To Study Decoration-Related Phenotypes of the Enterococcal Polysaccharide Antigen.

Commensal and generally harmless in healthy individuals, Enterococcus faecalis causes opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Plasmid-cured E. faecalis strain VE14089, derived from sequenced reference strain V583, is widely used for functional studies due to its improved genetic amenability. Although strain VE14089 has no major DNA rearrangements, with the exception of an ∼20-kb integrated region of pTEF1 plasmid, the strain presented significant growth differences from the V583 reference strain of our collection (renamed VE14002). In the present study, genome sequencing of strain VE14089 identified additional point mutations. Excision of the integrated pTEF1 plasmid region and sequential restoration of wild-type alleles showing nonsilent mutations were performed to obtain the VE18379 reference-derivative strain. Recovery of the growth ability of the restored VE18379 strain at a level similar to that seen with the reference strain points to GreA and Spx as bacterial fitness determinants. Virulence potential in Galleria mellonella and intestinal colonization in mouse demonstrated host adaptation of the VE18379 strain equivalent to VE14002 host adaptation. We further demonstrated that deletion of the 16.8-kb variable region of the epa locus recapitulates the key role of Epa decoration in host adaptation, providing a genetic system to study the role of specific epa-variable regions in host adaptation independently of other genetic variations.IMPORTANCEE. faecalis strain VE14089 was derived from V583 cured of its plasmids. Although VE14089 had no major DNA rearrangements, it presented significant growth and host adaptation differences from the reference strain V583 of our collection. To construct a strain with better fitness, we sequenced the genome of VE14089, identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and repaired the genes that could account for these changes. Using this reference-derivative strain, we provide a novel genetic system to understand the role of the variable region of epa in the enterococcal lifestyle.