Evaluation of the biological function of ribosomal protein S18 from cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, also known as the cattle tick, causes severe parasitism and transmits different pathogens to vertebrate hosts, leading to massive economic losses. In the present study, we performed a functional characterization of a ribosomal protein from R. microplus to investigate its importance in blood feeding, egg production and viability. Ribosomal protein S18 (RPS18) is part of the 40S subunit, associated with 18S rRNA, and has been previously pointed to have a secondary role in different organisms. Rhipicephalus microplus RPS18 (RmRPS18) gene expression levels were modulated in female salivary glands during blood feeding. Moreover, mRNA levels in this tissue were 10 times higher than those in the midgut of fully engorged female ticks. Additionally, recombinant RmRPS18 was recognized by IgG antibodies from sera of cattle naturally or experimentally infested with ticks. RNAi-mediated knockdown of the RmRPS18 gene was performed in fully engorged females, leading to a significant (29 %) decrease in egg production. Additionally, egg hatching was completely impaired, suggesting that no viable eggs were produced by the RmRPS18-silenced group. Furthermore, antimicrobial assays revealed inhibitory activities against gram-negative Escherichia coli and gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, affecting bacterial growth. Data presented here show the important role of RmRPS18 in tick physiology and suggest that RmRPS18 can be a potential target for the development of novel strategies for tick control.

Biochemical characterization of a novel sphingomyelinase-like protein from the Rhipicephalus microplus tick.

Sphingomyelinase D is a toxin present in venomous spiders and bacteria and is associated with infection symptoms in patients affected by spider bites. It was observed that in Ixodes scapularis ticks, sphingomyelinase-like protein secreted in saliva can modulate the host immune response, affecting the transmission of flavivirus to the host via exosomes. In this work, a sphingomyelinase D-like protein (RmSMase) from R. microplus, a tick responsible for economic losses and a vector of pathogens for cattle, was investigated. The amino acid sequence revealed the lack of important residues for enzymatic activity, but the recombinant protein showed sphingomyelinase D activity. RmSMase shows Ca2+ and Mg2+ dependence in acidic pH, differing from IsSMase, which has Mg2+ dependence in neutral pH. Due to the difference between RmSMase and other SMases described, the data suggest that RmSMase belongs to SMase D class IIc. RmSMase mRNA transcription levels are upregulated during tick feeding, and the recombinant protein was recognized by host antibodies elicited after heavy tick infestation, indicating that RmSMase is present in tick saliva and may play a role in the tick feeding process.

Assessment the Impacts of Sea-Level Changes on Mangroves of Ceará-Mirim Estuary, Northeastern Brazil, during the Holocene and Anthropocene.

Predictions of the effects of modern Relative Sea-Level (RSL) rise on mangroves should be based on decadal-millennial mangrove dynamics and the particularities of each depositional environment under past RSL changes. This work identified inland and seaward mangrove migrations along the Ceará-Mirim estuary (Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil) during the mid-late Holocene and Anthropocene based on sedimentary features, palynological, and geochemical (δ13C, δ15N, C/N) data integrated with spatial-temporal analysis based on satellite images. The data indicated three phases for the mangrove development: (1°) mangrove expansion on tidal flats with estuarine organic matter between >4420 and ~2870 cal yrs BP, under the influence of the mid-Holocene sea-level highstand; (2°) mangrove contraction with an increased contribution of C3 terrestrial plants between ~2870 and ~84 cal yrs BP due to an RSL fall, and (3°) mangrove expansion onto the highest tidal flats since ~84 cal yr BP due to a relative sea-level rise. However, significant mangrove areas were converted to fish farming before 1984 CE. Spatial-temporal analysis also indicated a mangrove expansion since 1984 CE due to mangrove recolonization of shrimp farming areas previously deforested for pisciculture. This work mainly evidenced a trend of mangrove expansion due to RSL rise preceding the effects of anthropogenic emissions of CO2 in the atmosphere and the resilience of these forests in the face of anthropogenic interventions.

A new species of Uroxys Westwood, 1842 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) from central Brazil, and taxonomical remarks on Uroxys epipleuralis (Boucomont, 1928).

Uroxys punctatus, new species, is described from central Brazil based on taxonomic characters in the cephalic and pronotal punctations and in the male genitalia. A comparative diagnosis with U. epipleuralis (Boucomont, 1928), a morphologically similar species, is provided. A lectotype is designated for U. epipleuralis from a series of four syntypes. Uroxys thoracalis Balthasar, 1940 is newly established as a junior subjective synonym of U. epipleuralis, whereas the previously proposed synonymy between the latter and U. dureti Martnez, 1947 is confirmed. Both nomenclatural acts are based on the study of the respective type specimens. A detailed literature review, illustrations of diagnostic characters, and distributional data for each species are provided.

Taxonomic revision of the genus Deltepilissus Pereira, 1949 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini).

Deltepilissus Pereira, 1949 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini) is revised and consists of two valid species, both endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Deltepilissus diabolicus (Harold, 1880), from Bahia, and D. infernalis (Harold, 1880), from Esprito Santo to So Paulo, are redescribed, including characters of the adult female and of the male genitalia, both described and illustrated here for the first time. Lectotypes are designated for D. diabolicus (Harold, 1880) and D. infernalis (Harold, 1880). A detailed literature review, synonymies, diagnoses, key for species identification, illustration of key morphological characters, as well as data of the studied material and geographic distribution are provided for each species. A discussion about their conservation status is also provided.

A taxonomic revision of the South American species of Pseudocanthon Bates, 1887 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini).

The South American species of Pseudocanthon Bates, 1887 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini) are reviewed. In this work, 10 valid species and two subspecies are recognized for the genus. Among these species, five are recorded in South America, including three new species: P. perplexus (LeConte, 1847), P. xanthurus (Blanchard, 1847), P. vazdemelloi new species, P. pantanensis new species, and P. chaquensis new species. A lectotype is designated for P. xanthurus (Blanchard, 1847). In this revision, each species is analyzed as follows: a detailed literature review, an identification key for the South American species, a diagnosis, descriptions, illustrations of key morphological characters, list of examined material, and geographic distribution.

The Influence of Lime Solution in Kneading Water Substitution on Cement Roughcast and Mortar Coating.

The understanding of the mechanical fixation behavior of coatings is crucial for a better comprehension of the bonding systems, especially at the interface between the mortar and the substrate. Physical adherence is related, among other things, to the contents of the materials used in the roughcast and mortar coatings, due to the colloidal water penetration into the pores of the substrate. This work evaluated the influence of different lime solution additions replacing the kneading water in the preparation of roughcast and mortar coatings. Two types of substrates were investigated:ceramic bricks and concrete blocks. Three wall masonry panels were constructed, with dimensions of 220 × 180 cm2, one of concrete block and two of ceramic bricks, followed by the application of roughcast and mortar coating with an average thickness of 5 mm and 20 mm, respectively. Direct tensile bond strength tests were performed and the results, with a 95% confidence level, showed that substrate ceramic and treatment in the roughcast exhibited a better behavior regarding the distribution of the tensile bond strength of the tested specimens. However, no significant differences of the amount of addition used (0%, 5%, 10% and 15%) on the tensile bond strength were observed.

Spatio-temporal variation of Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) populations in Brazil according to meteorological factors / Variações espaço-temporais das popupações de Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) no Brasil de acordo com fatores meteorológicos

Abstract: Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) has been recognized as a major owlet caterpillar associated to the herbivory of gramineaceous plants across the American continent. During outbreaks, the caterpillars are capable of completely consuming preferred hosts (grasses) and, when these hosts are destroyed, they can move to adjacent non-grass plants and cause similar damage. Meteorological variable such as temperature and humidity are described as factors that affect the development and abundance of M. latipes. This paper aimed to describe and compare the spatial and temporal distribution of M. latipes in different locations in Brazil and to evaluate the influence of meteorological variables on the temporal range. A total of 12 locations were evaluated, in each collection point light traps were installed near cultivated areas. In order to understand the influence of meteorological variables on the abundance of M. latipes, the data were analyzed using a Generalized Linear Model according to Poisson regression. A linear regression was also used to verify the relation between the abundance and the latitude. A total of 1,985 moths were collected. The highest collections were in Amazon and Cerrado biomes. Results show that abundance was inversely related to increasing latitude and Poisson regression analysis indicated that the main meteorological variables were significantly related to abundance at each site. This study shows that due to the high preference for gramineas and the high temperature requirements (30°C), M. latipes is an important species in hot regions and regions with hight humidity. Furthurmore, even in higher latitudes, in subtropical areas, during summer months, populations can Rapidly growth being able to cause economic damages.

Resumo: Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) tem sido reconhecida como uma das principais espécies consumidoras de gramíneas em todo o continente americano. Durante os surtos, as lagartas são capazes de consumir completamente os hospedeiros preferenciais (gramíneas) e, quando os hospedeiros preferenciais são destruídos, podem mover-se para plantas adjacentes não gramíneas e causar danos semelhantes. Variáveis meteorológicas, como temperatura e umidade, são conhecidas por afetar o desenvolvimento e a abundância de suas populações. Este trabalho teve como objetivo descrever e comparar a distribuição espaço-temporal de M. latipes em diferentes localidades do Brasil e avaliar a influência de variáveis meteorológicas sobre suas variações temporais. Foram avaliados 12 locais, em cada ponto de coleta foram instaladas armadilhas luminosas próximas às áreas de cultivo. Para entender a influência das variáveis meteorológicas na abundância de M. latipes, os dados foram analisados pelo Modelo Linear Generalizado, empregando a regressão de Poisson. Uma regressão linear também foi utilizada para verificar a relação entre a abundância e a latitude. Um total de 1.985 mariposas foram coletadas. Os maiores números de indivíduos foram coletados nos biomas Amazônia e Cerrado. Os resultados mostram que a abundância de mariposas está inversamente relacionada ao aumento da latitude. A análise de regressão de Poisson indicou que as principais variáveis meteorológicas foram significativamente relacionadas à abundância em cada local. Este estudo mostra que devido à preferência por gramíneas em estado vegetativo e às altas exigências de temperatura (30°C), M. latipes é uma espécie importante em regiões quentes, especialmente nas épocas de maior umidade. Além disso, mesmo em latitudes elevadas, durante os meses de verão, as populações podem aumentar rapidamente, podendo causar danos econômicos.

A revision of the subgenera Euhyboma Kolbe, 1893, Parahyboma Paulian, 1938, and Rubrohyboma Paulian, 1939 of Deltochilum Eschscholtz, 1822 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae)

ABSTRACT This paper provides a revision of the three smallest subgenera of Deltochilum, all endemic to the Atlantic Forest of South America. Deltochilum (Euhyboma) and D. (Rubrohyboma) are monospecific taxa, composed of D. brasiliense (Castelnau, 1840) and D. rubripenne (Gory, 1831), respectively, whereas D. (Parahyboma) is composed of two allopatric species, D. furcatum (Castelnau, 1840) and D. granulosum Paulian, 1933. Lectotypes for D. brasiliense and D. rubripenne are designated. Each species is analyzed as follows: a detailed literature review, a diagnosis, description, illustrations of key morphological characters, list of material examined, and geographic distribution. An improved identification key to the subgenera of Deltochilum is presented.

Brazilian Atlantic rainforest endangered biodiversity: a new species of the Dichotomius sericeus (Harold, 1867) species group (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae).

Dichotomius valoisae new species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Dichotomiini) from Santa Luzia do Itanhi, Sergipe, Brazil, is described based on external differences from its congeners. Diagnostic characters and a brief discussion about its conservation status are provided, as well as an updated identification key to the Dichotomius sericeus (Harold) species group.

Regulation of nursing practice in the Region of the Americas.

OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the current nursing regulations across countries in the Region of the Americas. METHODS: A country comparative analysis was carried out by gathering information from the ministries of health, nursing schools, councils, associations, and boards in 2018. The main categories evaluated were type of regulatory bodies, requirements for initial professional registration, and registration renewal. RESULTS: All countries regulate the nursing profession through a regulatory body. Competency exams for initial registration are required in the United States, Canada, and most Caribbean countries. Registration renewal is required in 54.3% of the countries. Continuing education is required for professional registration renewal in the United States, Canada, and 53% of Caribbean countries. Labor hours are required in the United States and Canada. CONCLUSION: Regulations promote and protect professional integrity. The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization recommends that countries make efforts to evaluate competency and training, consider the use of competency exams for initial registration, and add continuing education as requirements for registration renewal.

OBJETIVO: Describir y analizar la normativa reguladora vigente en materia de enfermería en los países de la Región de las Américas. MÉTODOS: Se efectuó un análisis comparativo de los países reuniendo información de los ministerios de salud, escuelas de enfermería, consejos, asociaciones y comités profesionales en 2018. Las principales categorías evaluadas fueron los tipos de organismos reguladores, los requisitos para el registro profesional inicial y la renovación del registro. RESULTADOS: Todos los países regulan la profesión de enfermería por medio de un organismo regulatorio. Los Estados Unidos, Canadá y la mayoría de los países del Caribe exigen exámenes de competencia para el registro inicial. En el 54,3% de los países se exige la renovación periódica del registro. En los Estados Unidos, Canadá y el 53% de los países del Caribe se requiere cumplimentar educación continua para renovar el registro profesional. En los Estados Unidos y Canadá se requiere acreditar horas de trabajo. CONCLUSIÓN: Los mecanismos regulatorios promueven y protegen la integridad profesional. La Organización Panamericana de la Salud/Organización Mundial de la Salud recomienda que los países evalúen la competencia y la capacitación profesionales, consideren la posibilidad de utilizar exámenes de competencia para el registro inicial y requieran educación continua como requisito para renovar el registro profesional.

Maternal health training priorities for nursing and allied professions in Haiti.

OBJECTIVES: This study summarizes the findings of a training needs and priority assessment completed in Haiti. Its objective is to describe the characteristics of nursing and allied professions providing first level maternal health care and identify training needs and priorities to inform planning of Human Resources for Health interventions. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was completed between October 2016 and March 2017 by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Haiti office in collaboration with national health authorities. Participants reached consensus to submit one finalized version of the survey. Data were collected on composition, capacities, and training needs and priorities of traditional birth attendants, community health workers, registered nurses, professional midwives, and auxiliary nurses. RESULTS: Haiti relies heavily on community level workers including community health workers, auxiliary nurses, and traditional birth attendants. Traditional birth attendants attend the majority of Haiti's births, despite having low education levels and not being regulated by the Ministry of Public Health and Population. All professional categories prioritize preventive capacities such as timely identification of complications, while none are trained to manage postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, or eclampsia. Management of obstetric emergencies is a training priority for Haiti but is not part of the scope of work of the nursing and allied health professions included in this study. CONCLUSIONS: Community level health workers are key in providing preventive care and referral of complicated pregnancies, but lack of access to providers qualified to treat obstetric complications remains a challenge to reducing maternal mortality.

Maternal health training priorities for nursing and allied professions in Haiti / Prioridades de capacitación en salud materna para la enfermería y profesiones auxiliares en Haití / Prioridades na formação de enfermeiros e profissionais da saúde auxiliares na área da saúde materna no Haiti

ABSTRACT Objectives. This study summarizes the findings of a training needs and priority assessment completed in Haiti. Its objective is to describe the characteristics of nursing and allied professions providing first level maternal health care and identify training needs and priorities to inform planning of Human Resources for Health interventions. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was completed between October 2016 and March 2017 by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Haiti office in collaboration with national health authorities. Participants reached consensus to submit one finalized version of the survey. Data were collected on composition, capacities, and training needs and priorities of traditional birth attendants, community health workers, registered nurses, professional midwives, and auxiliary nurses. Results. Haiti relies heavily on community level workers including community health workers, auxiliary nurses, and traditional birth attendants. Traditional birth attendants attend the majority of Haiti's births, despite having low education levels and not being regulated by the Ministry of Public Health and Population. All professional categories prioritize preventive capacities such as timely identification of complications, while none are trained to manage postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, or eclampsia. Management of obstetric emergencies is a training priority for Haiti but is not part of the scope of work of the nursing and allied health professions included in this study. Conclusions. Community level health workers are key in providing preventive care and referral of complicated pregnancies, but lack of access to providers qualified to treat obstetric complications remains a challenge to reducing maternal mortality.(AU)

RESUMEN Objetivos. En este estudio se resumen los resultados de la evaluación de necesidades y prioridades de capacitación realizada en Haití. Su objetivo es describir las características de la enfermería y las profesiones auxiliares que prestan el primer nivel de atención de salud materna, y establecer las necesidades y las prioridades de capacitación a fin de diseñar la planificación de recursos humanos para las intervenciones de la salud. Métodos. La Representación de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud/Organización Mundial de la Salud en Haití realizó una encuesta transversal entre octubre del 2016 y marzo del 2017, en colaboración con las autoridades nacionales de salud. Los participantes consensuaron presentar una versión ultimada de la encuesta. Se recopilaron datos sobre la composición, las capacidades y las necesidades y las prioridades de capacitación de las parteras tradicionales, los agentes comunitarios de salud, las enfermeras tituladas, las parteras profesionales y las enfermeras auxiliares. Resultados. Haití depende en gran medida de trabajadores comunitarios, entre los que se incluyen los agentes comunitarios de salud, las enfermeras auxiliares y las parteras tradicionales. Las parteras tradicionales atienden la mayoría de los nacimientos en Haití, a pesar de disponer de un nivel bajo de formación y no estar reguladas por el Ministerio de Salud Pública y Población. Todas las categorías profesionales priorizan las capacidades preventivas, como la detección temprana de las complicaciones, si bien no están capacitadas para controlar la hemorragia posparto, la preeclampsia o la eclampsia. El tratamiento de las urgencias obstétricas es una prioridad de la capacitación en Haití, pero no forma parte del ámbito de trabajo de la enfermería y las profesiones auxiliares incluidas en este estudio. Conclusiones. Los trabajadores de salud a nivel comunitario son clave para la prestación de atención preventiva y derivación de los embarazos complicados, pero la falta de acceso a prestadores cualificados para tratar las complicaciones obstétricas es todavía un obstáculo para reducir la mortalidad materna.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivos. Este estudo resume os resultados de uma avaliação sobre as necessidades prioritárias na formação de profissionais da saúde no Haiti. Seu objetivo é descrever as características do trabalho de enfermeiros e profissionais da saúde auxiliares na prestação de atenção primária para a saúde materna e identificar as necessidades prioritárias de formação, a fim de fundamentar o planejamento de intervenções voltadas aos recursos humanos para a saúde. Métodos. O Escritório da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde/Organização Mundial da Saúde no Haiti, em colaboração com as autoridades nacionais de saúde, realizou um inquérito transversal entre outubro de 2016 e março de 2017. Os participantes chegaram a um consenso, apresentando uma versão finalizada do inquérito. Foram coletados dados sobre a composição, as capacidades e as necessidades prioritárias de formação de parteiras tradicionais, agentes comunitários de saúde, enfermeiros, parteiras profissionais e auxiliares de enfermagem. Resultados. O Haiti é muito dependente de trabalhadores de nível comunitário, como agentes comunitários de saúde, auxiliares de enfermagem e parteiras tradicionais. As parteiras tradicionais atendem a maioria dos partos no Haiti, apesar de terem um baixo nível de escolaridade e não serem regulamentadas pelo Ministério de Saúde Pública e População. Todas as categorias profissionais priorizam as capacidades preventivas, como a rápida identificação de complicações, e nenhuma recebe formação para lidar com hemorragia pós-parto, pré-eclâmpsia ou eclâmpsia. A formação para o tratamento de emergências obstétricas é uma prioridade no Haiti, mas não faz parte do escopo de trabalho dos enfermeiros e profissionais da saúde auxiliares incluídos neste estudo. Conclusões. Os profissionais da saúde de nível comunitário são fundamentais na prestação de cuidados preventivos e no encaminhamento de gestações complicadas, mas a falta de acesso a profissionais qualificados para tratar complicações obstétricas ainda é um obstáculo nos esforços para reduzir a mortalidade materna.(AU)

A new Peruvian species of Scybalocanthon Martínez, 1948 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae, Deltochilini) and some remarkable intrapopulational variation in the endophallus of S. pinopterus (Kirsch, 1873).

Scybalocanthon ashei sp. nov. from Madre de Dios, Peru, is described based on differences in external and male genital morphology. Its diagnostic characters and an updated identification key to the species of the genus are provided as well as new distributional data for the following species: S. acrianus Silva & Valois, 2019, S. aereus (Schmidt, 1922), S. kaestneri (Balthasar, 1939) and S. pinopterus (Kirsch, 1873).

A taxonomic revision of the genus Scybalocanthon Martínez, 1948 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini).

The genus Scybalocanthon Martínez, 1948 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Deltochilini) is revised and now consists of 23 valid species. Eight new species are described: S. acrianus new species, S. adisi new species, S. arnaudi new species, S. chamorroi new species, S. federicoescobari new species, S. haroldi new species, S. martinezi new species, and S. papaxibe new species. Scybalocanthon uniplagiatus (Schmidt, 1922) new combination is placed in the genus for the first time. The following species previously assigned to Scybalocanthon are here placed in the genus Canthon Hoffmannsegg, 1817: Canthon arcabuquensis (Molano Medina, 2010) new combination, Canthon balachowskyi (Martínez Halffter, 1972) new combination, Canthon luctuosus Harold, 1868, Canthon magnus (Molano Parrales, 2015) new combination, and Canthon nigellus Schmidt, 1922. Scybalocanthon imitans (Harold, 1868) is a new junior subjective synonym of S. sexspilotus (Guérin-Méneville, 1855) and S. zischkai Martínez, 1949 is a new junior subjective synonym of S. aereus (Schmidt, 1922). Lectotypes are designated for S. aereus (Schmidt, 1922), S. cyanocephalus (Harold, 1868), S. darlingtoni (Paulian, 1939), S. kaestneri (Balthasar, 1939), S. maculatus (Schmidt, 1920), S. moniliatus (Bates, 1887), S. pinopterus (Kirsch, 1873), S. pygidialis (Schmidt, 1922), S. trimaculatus (Schmidt, 1922), and S. uniplagiatus (Schmidt, 1922). A neotype is designated for S. sexspilotus (Guérin-Méneville, 1855). A detailed literature review, synonymies, diagnosis, key for species identification, illustration of key morphological characters, as well as data of the studied material and geographic distribution are provided for each species.

Low intensity electric field inactivation of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria via metal-free polymeric composite.

The adhesion of pathogenic bacteria in medical implants and surfaces is a health-related problem that requires strong inhibition against bacterial growth and attachment. In this work, we have explored the enhancement in the antibacterial activity of metal free-based composites under external electric field. It affects the oxidation degree of polypyrrole-based electrodes and consequently the antibacterial activity of the material. A conductive layer of carbon nanotubes (graphite) was deposited on porous substrate of polyurethane (sandpaper) and covered by polypyrrole, providing highly conductive electrodes characterized by intrinsic antibacterial activity and reinforced by electro-enhanced effect due to the external electric field. The bacterial inhibition of composites was monitored from counting of viable cells at different voltage/time of treatment and determination of biofilm inhibition on electrodes and reactors. The external voltage on electrodes reduces the threshold time for complete bacterial inactivation of PPy-based composites to values in order of 30 min for Staphylococcus aureus and 60 min for Escherichia coli.

Capacitación de recursos humanos en salud materna en Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haití, Honduras, Nicaragua y Perú: descripción de la experiencia / Human Resource Training in Maternal Care in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua and Peru: An Experience Description / Treinamento de recursos humanos em saúde materna na Bolívia, Colômbia, Equador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicarágua e Peru: descrição da experiência

Introducción: América Latina y el Caribe han disminuido la mortalidad materna; sin embargo, aún poseen países con altas tasas, lo que refleja inequidades en el acceso a servicios de salud. La capacitación de recurso humano competente en atención primaria es una de las principales estrategias para abordar la problemática. Objetivo: describir la experiencia de planificación, implementación y evaluación de un programa de capacitaciones en salud materna en países de la región (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Haití y Perú). Metodología: entre 2016 y 2019, el Departamento de Sistemas y Servicios de Salud y la Unidad de Recursos Humanos de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud, junto a centros colaboradores, universidades y al Centro Latinoamericano de Perinatología y Salud de la Mujer, realizaron un levantamiento de necesidades de capacitación, desarrollaron plan de formación e implementaron capacitaciones para personal profesional y no profesional en salud materna. Resultados: las necesidades de capacitación detectadas fueron liderazgo en salud, cuidados prenatales, parto, posparto, emergencias obstétricas y planificación familiar. Estas se consideraron en capacitaciones presenciales y virtuales, con 71 entrenadores de 7 países, quienes a su vez las reprodujeron para más de 4000 personas. Las evaluaciones fueron muy positivas y se espera determinar el impacto en salud en futuros proyectos. Conclusiones: es fundamental la detección de necesidades y el trabajo colaborativo para realizar capacitaciones acordes en los países de la región, que permita contar con recurso humano motivado y competente para aumentar el acceso y la cobertura en la atención en salud materna de calidad.

Introduction: Latin America and the Caribbean have reduced the maternal mortality rates. However, some of these countries still have high rates, which indicates the inequity in the access to the health services. The human resource training competent in primary health care is one of the main strategies to approach this problem. Objective: To describe the experience of planning, implementing and evaluating a training program in maternal health in countries of this region (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Haiti and Peru). Methodology: Between 2016 and 2019, the Department of Health Systems and Services and the Human Resource Unit of the Pan-American Health Organization, together with some collaborative centers, universities and the Latin-American Center for Perinatology and Women's Health, carried out a survey on training needs, developed a formation plan and implemented the training among both professional and non-professional staff in relation to maternal health. Results: The training needs identified were Health Leadership, Prenatal Care, Labor, Postpartum Care, Obstetric Emergencies, and Family Planning. These needs are addressed both in the online and in-person training with 71 trainers from seven countries, who reproduced them for more than 4000 people. The evaluations were very positive and the health impact in future Project is yet to be determined. Conclusions: It is crucial to identify the needs and to do collaborative work in order to carry out the pertinent training in our countries. This would allow to count on the human talent, motivated and competent, in order to increase the access and coverage of high quality maternal health care.

Introdução: América Latina e Caribe diminuíram a mortalidade materna; no entanto, ainda têm países com altas taxas, refletindo iniquidades no acesso a serviços de saúde. O treinamento de recurso humano competente em atenção primária é uma das principais estratégias para abordar a problemática. Objetivo: Descrever a experiência de planejamento, implementação e avaliação de um programa de capacitações em saúde materna em países da região (Bolívia, Colômbia, Equador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicarágua, Haiti e Peru). Metodologia: Entre 2016 e 2019, o Departamento de Sistemas e Serviços de Saúde e a Unidade de Recursos Humanos da Organização Pan-americana da Saúde, junto com centros colaboradores, universidades e o Centro Latino-americano de Perinatologia e Saúde da Mulher realizaram um inquérito de necessidades de treinamento, desenvolveram plano de formação e implementaram treinamentos para pessoal profissional e não profissional em saúde materna. Resultados: As necessidades de treino detectadas foram liderança em saúde, cuidados pré-natais, parto, pós-parto, emergências obstétricas e planejamento familiar. Estas foram consideradas em treinos presenciais e virtuais, com 71 treinadores de 7 países, quem por sua vez as reproduziram para mais de 4000 pessoas. As avaliações foram muito positivas e espera-se determinar o impacto em saúde em projetos futuros. Conclusões: É fundamental a detecção de necessidades e trabalho colaborativo para realizar treinamentos acordes nos países da região, que permitam contar com recurso humano motivado e competente para aumentar o acesso e a cobertura na atenção em saúde materna de qualidade.

Multifunctional Wearable Electronic Textiles Using Cotton Fibers with Polypyrrole and Carbon Nanotubes.

Multifunctional wearable electronic textiles based on interfacial polymerization of polypyrrole on carbon nanotubes/cotton fibers offer advantages of simple and low-cost materials that incorporate bactericidal, good electrochemical performance, and electrical heating properties. The high conductivity of doped polypyrrole/CNT composite provides textiles that reaches temperature on order of 70 °C with field of 5 V/cm, superior electrochemical performance applied as electrodes of supercapacitor prototypes, reaching capacitance in order of 30 F g-1 and strong bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The combination of these properties can be explored in smart devices for heat and microbial treatment on different parts of body, with incorporated storage of energy on textiles.

Disrupted day-night pattern of cardiovascular death in obstructive sleep apnea.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients who suffer sudden cardiac death die predominantly during the night. We aimed to investigate whether all cardiovascular-related deaths display the same night-time peak as sudden cardiac death. METHODS: Data from a large cohort of adults who underwent full-night polysomnography between 1985 and 2015 in a university-affiliated sleep clinic were analyzed. Time and cause of death of these patients and of persons from the general population were identified in death certificates from the State Health Secretariat. The day-night pattern of cardiovascular death was compared among groups of non-OSA, OSA (apnea-hypopnea index, AHI ≥5), CPAP users, and persons from the general population. RESULTS: Among 619 certificates, 160 cardiovascular-related deaths were identified. The time of death of the 142 persons with OSA was uniformly distributed over 24 h, with neither an identifiable peak nor a circadian pattern (Rayleigh test; P = 0.8); the same flat distribution was seen in those with purported CPAP use (n = 49). Non-OSA individuals presented a morning peak and a night nadir of deaths, clearer when analyzed in eight-hour intervals. The same pattern was observed in 92 836 certificates from the State general population, with cardiovascular deaths showing the expected morning peak, night nadir, and a significant circadian pattern (Rayleigh test; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In OSA patients, the distribution of cardiovascular-related deaths throughout the 24-h period is virtually flat, in contrast with the described nighttime peak of sudden cardiac death. OSA-related phenomena during nighttime might be blunting the mechanisms, arrhythmic or not, behind the morning peak of cardiovascular-related deaths.

68Ga-prostate-specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for Prostate Cancer Imaging: A Narrative Literature Review.

The 68Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen ( 68Ga-PSMA) has been recently developed to be used, as a ligand, in positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) prostate cancer imaging, to detect prostate disease. The main objective of this review was to collect data and findings from other studies and articles to assess, theoretically, if 68GA-PSMA PET/CT is a more appropriate prostate cancer diagnostic technique in comparison with others available such as CT, 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose PET/CT, or 18F-fluoromethylcholine ( 18F-choline) PET/CT. For that purpose, PubMed, the online scientific articles' database, was consulted where the keywords "PSMA" and "PET" were used to find relevant articles. The clinicaltrials.gov, clinical trials' database, was also consulted where the keywords "68Ga-PSMA" and "prostate" were used to search clinical trials. Based on the reviewed scientific literature, several studies were conducted to assess and compare the 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT detection rate in prostate cancer with other available techniques. One of those studies, conducted by Giesel et al., concluded, within study sample, that 75% of patients with lymph nodes detected by 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT would have not been identified using other conventional morphological criteria based techniques. In Eiber et al.'s study, 68Ga-PSMA PET detected prostatic disease findings in 67% of patients with prostate-specific antigen levels <1 ng/mL, when compared with choline-based PET that presented detection rates between 19% and 36%. In Bluemel et al.'s study, 68Ga-PSMA identified positive prostatic disease in 43.8% of the patients with negative findings in F-choline PET/CT. Findings from this review demonstrate that 68Ga-PSMA PET/C is more effective in detecting metastases, lymph nodes, and recurrent prostate cancer when compared to 18F-choline-based PET/CT and CT. 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT presents also more imaging contrast and can be more cost-effective. 68Ga-PSMA has already been subjected to first-in-human trials, and it is now being tested in Phase II and III trials.