Engineered Fluorescent Strains of Cryptococcus neoformans: a Versatile Toolbox for Studies of Host-Pathogen Interactions and Fungal Biology, Including the Viable but Nonculturable State.

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen known for its remarkable ability to infect and subvert phagocytes. This ability provides survival and persistence within the host and relies on phenotypic plasticity. The viable but nonculturable (VBNC) phenotype was recently described in C. neoformans, whose study is promising in understanding the pathophysiology of cryptococcosis. The use of fluorescent strains is improving host interaction research, but it is still underexploited. Here, we fused histone H3 or the poly(A) binding protein (Pab) to enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) or mCherry, obtaining a set of C. neoformans transformants with different colors, patterns of fluorescence, and selective markers (hygromycin B resistance [Hygr] or neomycin resistance [Neor]). We validated their similarity to the parental strain in the stress response, the expression of virulence-related phenotypes, mating, virulence in Galleria mellonella, and survival within murine macrophages. PAB-GFP, the brightest transformant, was successfully applied for the analysis of phagocytosis by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Moreover, we demonstrated that an engineered fluorescent strain of C. neoformans was able to generate VBNC cells. GFP-tagged Pab1, a key regulator of the stress response, evidenced nuclear retention of Pab1 and the assembly of cytoplasmic stress granules, unveiling posttranscriptional mechanisms associated with dormant C. neoformans cells. Our results support that the PAB-GFP strain is a useful tool for research on C. neoformans. IMPORTANCE Cryptococcus neoformans is a human-pathogenic yeast that can undergo a dormant state and is responsible for over 180,000 deaths annually worldwide. We engineered a set of fluorescent transformants to aid in research on C. neoformans. A mutant with GFP-tagged Pab1 improved fluorescence-based techniques used in host interaction studies. Moreover, this mutant induced a viable but nonculturable phenotype and uncovered posttranscriptional mechanisms associated with dormant C. neoformans. The experimental use of fluorescent mutants may shed light on C. neoformans-host interactions and fungal biology, including dormant phenotypes.

River network rearrangements promote speciation in lowland Amazonian birds.

Large Amazonian rivers impede dispersal for many species, but lowland river networks frequently rearrange, thereby altering the location and effectiveness of river barriers through time. These rearrangements may promote biotic diversification by facilitating episodic allopatry and secondary contact among populations. We sequenced genome-wide markers to evaluate the histories of divergence and introgression in six Amazonian avian species complexes. We first tested the assumption that rivers are barriers for these taxa and found that even relatively small rivers facilitate divergence. We then tested whether species diverged with gene flow and recovered reticulate histories for all species, including one potential case of hybrid speciation. Our results support the hypothesis that river rearrangements promote speciation and reveal that many rainforest taxa are micro-endemic, unrecognized, and thus threatened with imminent extinction. We propose that Amazonian hyper-diversity originates partly from fine-scale barrier displacement processes-including river dynamics-which allow small populations to differentiate and disperse into secondary contact.

Avian Assemblages in Forest Fragments do not Sum to the Expected Regional Community in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.

While bird diversity in the Atlantic Forest can be considered well-known, how the communities have been affected by deforestation and habitat fragmentation is not. We studied birds in 10 forest fragments of distinct sizes (all originally within the Atlantic Forest) in southern Bahia. In 5,391 bird encounters, we found 251 species, with 46 endemics and eight considered globally vulnerable or endangered. We also compiled a list of the 380 species that should comprise the expected regional assemblage, and found that only 66% of these species were present in all the fragments combined. Only 9% of all observed species were found in all fragments. The largest fragment (700 ha) had the greatest number of endemic species (40), and seven threatened species. All fragments had some conservation-important species (some were found in one or a few fragments), but no fragment included them all. Fragments shared 10% of endemic species, but overall, the contingent of endemics was unique in each fragment. Finally, most functional traits of bird assemblages decreased with increasing fragment size. Neither species richness nor similarity correlated with fragment size or distance between fragments, and unknown, non-random factors probably influence the likelihood of species survival in each fragment. Thus, to ensure the persistence of threatened species, as well as maintain the most common species, conservation management decisions should include all fragments together because no single fragment is most representative of the local community.

Displaced clines in an avian hybrid zone (Thamnophilidae: Rhegmatorhina) within an Amazonian interfluve.

Secondary contact between species often results in the formation of a hybrid zone, with the eventual fates of the hybridizing species dependent on evolutionary and ecological forces. We examine this process in the Amazon Basin by conducting the first genomic and phenotypic characterization of the hybrid zone formed after secondary contact between two obligate army-ant-followers: the White-breasted Antbird (Rhegmatorhina hoffmannsi) and the Harlequin Antbird (Rhegmatorhina berlepschi). We found a major geographic displacement (∼120 km) between the mitochondrial and nuclear clines, and we explore potential hypotheses for the displacement, including sampling error, genetic drift, and asymmetric cytonuclear incompatibilities. We cannot exclude roles for sampling error and genetic drift in contributing to the discordance; however, the data suggest expansion and unidirectional introgression of hoffmannsi into the distribution of berlepschi.

O Áporo de Drummond: um olhar junguiano / Drummond's Áporo: a jungian look / El Áporo de Drummond: una mirada jungiana

Jung deu muita atenção à produção artística, incluindo a literária, enfatizando o seu potencial para revelar conteúdos do inconsciente. A motivação para este trabalho surgiu a partir do sonho de um homem de meia idade, no qual a palavra áporo, desconhecida para ele, apareceu claramente. A busca pelo significado dessa palavra o levou ao poema Áporo de Carlos Drummond de Andrade, um dos mais analisados por críticos da literatura brasileira. O poema contém elementos simbólicos que remetem a um paralelismo com os arquétipos descritos por Jung no âmbito da psicologia analítica, como ego/persona, sombra, anima/animus e o si-mesmo. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever e analisar os aspectos simbólicos do poema, e concluiu-se que sua progressão sugere um processo de individuação.

Jung prestó mucha atención a la producción artística, incluida la literaria, enfatizando su potencial para revelar contenidos del inconsciente. La motivación de este trabajo surgió del sueño de un hombre de mediana edad, en el que aparecía claramente la palabra áporo, desconocida para él. La búsqueda del significado de esta palabra lo llevó al poema Áporo de Carlos Drummond de Andrade, uno de los más analizados por los críticos de la literatura brasileña. El poema contiene elementos simbólicos que hacen referencia a un paralelo con los arquetipos descritos por Jung en el ámbito de la psicología analítica, como ego/persona, sombra, ánima/animus y el sí-mismo. Por tanto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue describir y analizar los aspectos simbólicos del poema y se concluyó que su progresión sugiere un proceso de individuación.

Jung paid a lot of attention to artistic production, including the literary, emphasizing its potential to reveal contents of the unconscious. The motivation for this work arose from a middle-aged man's dream, in which the word áporo, unknown to him, clearly appeared. The search for the meaning of this word led him to the poem Áporo by Carlos Drummond de Andrade, one of the most analyzed by critics of Brazilian literature. The poem contains symbolic elements which refer to a parallel with the archetypes described by Jung in the scope of analytical psychology, such as ego/persona, shadow, anima/animus and Self. Therefore, the objective of this work was to describe and to analyze the symbolic aspects of the poem, and it was concluded that its progression suggests an individuation process.

Sintomas neurológicos e exposição à radiação eletromagnética da telefonia celular / Neurological symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted by cellphones / Síntomas neurológicos y exposición a la radiación electromagnética de teléfonos celulares

A tecnologia de comunicação sem fio, embora produza benefícios à exposição à radiação da telefonia celular, tem aumentado a preocupação da comunidade científica e sociedade em geral devido à possibilidade de efeitos adversos na saúde humana. Este artigo tem como objetivo investigar a associação entre exposição à radiação eletromagnética não ionizante (Reni) decorrente da estação radiobase de telefonia celular (TC) e sintomas neurológicos na população residente nos bairros do Bonfim e Monte Serrat do município de Salvador/BA. Em um estudo transversal realizado em Salvador/BA, entrevistaram-se 440 indivíduos. Queixas neurológicas constituíram as variáveis dependentes. Realizou-se análise de regressão logística hierarquizada para avaliação de confundimento. Observou-se associação entre sintomas neurológicos e formas de uso do telefone celular (mais de 30 min/dia, com sinal de cobertura fraco, dois ou mais chips e nunca desligar o celular quando dorme) e com uso de outros eletroeletrônicos. A exposição à Reni/TC foi associada aos sintomas neurológicos independente do sexo e escolaridade. Recomenda-se a adoção de medidas precaucionárias no sentido de se reduzir este tipo de exposição.

While wireless communication technology yields benefits, exposure to Radiation/TC has increased the concern of the scientific community and society at large because of their potential to cause adverse effects on human health. We analyzed the association between exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation arising from the cellular radio base station and neurological symptoms in the population living in the Bonfim and Monte Serrat, neighbourhoods of Salvador/BA. This cross-sectional study in Salvador, Bahia, included 440 interviewees. Neurological complaints were the dependent variables. An analysis of hierarchical logistic regression was conducted to assess confounding. We found an association between neurological effects and residential proximity to the BTS, various forms of cell phone use (more than 30 min/day, with weak signal coverage, near the body, two or more chips, and never turning off the phone while sleeping), and the use of other electronics. Exposure to RENI/MP and other electronics were shown to be associated with neurological effects regardless of sex and education. The adoption of precautionary measures to reduce this type of exposure is recommended.

Aunque la tecnología de comunicación inalámbrica beneficia la exposición a la radiación de la telefonía celular, se ha aumentado la preocupación de la comunidad científica y la sociedad en general por la posibilidad de ocasionar efectos adversos a la salud humana. El presente artículo pretende investigar la asociación entre la exposición a la radiación electromagnética no ionizante (Reni) resultante de la estación base de telefonía celular (TC) y los síntomas neurológicos en la población que vive en los barrios de Bonfim y Monte Serrat en la ciudad de Salvador/BA. El estudio transversal realizado en Salvador/BA entrevistó a 440 personas. Las quejas neurológicas fueron las variables dependientes. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística jerárquica para evaluar la confusión. Se observó una asociación entre los síntomas neurológicos y las formas de uso de la telefonía celular (más de 30 min/día, con una señal de cobertura débil, dos o más chips y la costumbre de nunca apagar el móvil cuando duerme) y con el uso de otros dispositivos electro-electrónicos. La exposición a la Reni/CT se asoció con síntomas neurológicos independientemente del género y el nivel de estudios. Se recomiendan medidas de precaución para reducir este tipo de exposición.

A atuação do SUS na vigilância de ambientes de trabalho: a experiência do Centro Estadual de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador (Cesat) na Bahia / The implementation of work environment surveillance by the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS): the experience of the State Reference Center for Worker's Health (Cesat) in Bahia

Resumo Objetivo: descrever e caracterizar as ações de vigilância em ambientes e processos de trabalho desenvolvidas pelo Centro Estadual de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador (Cesat) e os seus resultados. Métodos: estudo descritivo utilizando documentos técnicos gerados pelas inspeções sanitárias nos ambientes de trabalho desenvolvidas pelo Cesat no estado da Bahia, no período de 2004 a 2013. Resultados: foram analisados 283 relatórios de inspeções realizadas em 211 empresas, de 25 ramos de atividade econômica, na maioria empresas privadas, com maior concentração no ramo das indústrias química e petroquímica. A principal instituição que demandou ações foi o Ministério Público. O mapeamento de riscos e a verificação do cumprimento de recomendações de controle foram os principais motivos das inspeções. Identificou-se um caráter processual das ações, ou seja, contínuo e sistemático, assim como a intersetorialidade, interdisciplinaridade e participação dos trabalhadores. A resolutividade das inspeções foi evidenciada pelo cumprimento total ou parcial das recomendações. Conclusões: o Cesat vem desempenhando papel de estruturação das ações de Vigilância em Saúde do Trabalhador no estado da Bahia. Os achados indicam que sua atuação pode contribuir com o processo de avaliação e consolidação da vigilância em ambientes de trabalho pelo SUS.

Abstract Objective: to describe and characterize the actions and results of the work environments' surveillance actions developed by the Centro Estadual de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador - Cesat (State Reference Center for Worker's Health). Methods: descriptive study using technical documents generated by the surveillance inspections developed in work environments by the Cesat in the state of Bahia, Brazil, from 2004 to 2013. Results: we analyzed 283 surveillance reports carried out in 211 companies from 25 branches of economic activities, most of them private chemical and petrochemical industries. The Public Prosecutor's Office demanded the majority of the actions. The main reasons for the inspections were mapping risks and verifying compliance with control recommendations. We identified a processual character of the actions, that is, they are continuous and systematic, as well as intersectoral and interdisciplinary approaches, besides workers' participation. The inspections effectiveness was evidenced by the total ou partial compliance with the recommendations. Conclusions: Cesat has been well playing its role of structuring workers' health surveillance actions in the state of Bahia. Our findings indicate that its performance can contribute to the evaluation and consolidation of SUS' (Brazilian Unified Health System) work environment surveillance.

Plant invasion: Another threat to the São Paulo Marsh Antwren (Formicivora paludicola), a species on the verge of extinction.

During the past 100 years in densely populated south-eastern Brazil, wetlands have been severely transformed due to urbanization, agriculture and mining. The recently discovered São Paulo Marsh Antwren (Formicivora paludicola) is endemic to these wetlands, and is listed as "Critically Endangered" by the IUCN. The species is only found in an area of 1.42 km2, it has a sparse and fragmented distribution, low dispersal capacity, and has probably lost around 300 km2 of habitat in the past 100 years. Furthermore, very little is known about F. paludicola natural history, and so it is difficult to construct a robust conservation plan. Using Kernel home range estimations and the Adjusted-SD/Torus Shift test (a novel tool for animal-habitat association studies), we showed that the species avoids patches of the alien invasive ginger lily (Hedychium coronarium). Given the high density of their population (3.6 mature individuals/ha), F. paludicola could thrive in relatively small areas of suitable wetlands protected from human occupation and water contamination, however special attention should be paid to biological invasions, which may represent a serious threat to the remaining populations. Protecting a few small wetlands used by F. paludicola would be an important step towards general conservation and restoration of Atlantic Forest wetlands and its endemic endangered species.

OBESITY AND BREAST CANCER: ADIPOKINES' ROLE / Obesidade e câncer de mama: o papel das adipocinas

Objective: Obesity and overweight are risk factors, and also prognostic factor for cancer, including breast cancer. Studies have accessed adipokines, adiponectins and leptins as keymediators in obesity and breast cancer. Methods: This is a systematic review of observational epidemiological cohort, case-control and survival studies related adiponectin and leptin with obesity and breast cancer over the past 15 years. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, assessing the relationship of adiponectin and leptin as a risk factors and prognostic in breast cancer. Results: The studies showed an inverse relationship of adiponectin and direct relationship of leptin with body mass index (BMI) and were consistent in assigning lower serum levels of adiponectin to an increased risk of breast cancer, independently of BMI and variables of insulin resistance. Patients with breast cancer have low serum levels of adiponectin and higher levels of leptin in comparison to healthy patients. Low concentration of adiponectin increases the risk of breast cancer, and low concentrations of adiponectin and high of leptin are worse prognosis no matter the factors for breast cancer in women. Conclusion: The adipokines, in complex and interrelated mechanisms, probably drive breast cancer initiation and progression.

Introdução: A obesidade e o sobrepeso são fatores de risco e prognóstico para o câncer em diferentes sítios, incluindo a mama. Estudos têm avaliado o papel das adipocinas, adiponectina e leptina, como mediadores-chave entre a obesidade e o câncer de mama. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura de estudos epidemiológicos observacionais do tipo coorte, casocontrole e de sobrevida que relacionavam a adiponectina e/ou a leptina com obesidade e câncer de mama nos 15 anos anteriores à pesquisa. Quatorze estudos preencheram os critérios de inclusão, avaliando a adiponectina e a leptina como fatores de risco e prognóstico para o câncer de mama. Resultados: Os estudos demonstraram uma relação inversa da adiponectina e uma relação direta da leptina com o índice de massa corporal (IMC), e foram concordantes em atribuir menores níveis séricos de adiponectina a um aumento no risco de câncer de mama, independentes do IMC e das variáveis de resistência à insulina. As pacientes com câncer de mama apresentaram níveis séricos baixos de adiponectina e altos de leptina, em relação às pacientes saudáveis; níveis séricos baixos de adiponectina e altos de leptina são fatores de pior prognóstico independentes para câncer de mama em mulheres. Conclusão: As adipocinas, em mecanismos complexos e inter-relacionados, provavelmente dirigem o aparecimento e a progressão do câncer de mama.

Frequência e fatores relacionados ao índice tornozelo-braquial aberrante em diabéticos / Frequency and factors associated with high Ankle-Brachial Index in diabetic patients

Resumo Contexto O índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) é um exame de rastreamento da doença arterial obstrutiva periférica, sendo também utilizado para avaliar o risco cardiovascular. Em diabéticos, a interpretação do exame é difícil pela possibilidade de índice aberrante devido à calcificação da camada média arterial. Objetivo Encontrar a frequência de ITB aberrante em diabéticos e verificar sua associação com variáveis sociodemográficas. Métodos Estudo descritivo com entrevista e aferição de ITB de 309 pacientes diabéticos tipo 2, acompanhados no centro de referência Centro de Diabetes e Endocrinologia da Bahia (CEDEBA), Salvador, BA, Brasil. Foi estudada a frequência e a relação entre o ITB aberrante e variáveis sociodemográficas, como sexo, idade e renda familiar. Utilizou-se um ponto de corte para ITB aberrante de 1,3. As variáveis contínuas foram dicotomizadas. Para a análise estatística, utilizou-se o teste do qui-quadrado, considerando significante um p ≤ 0,05. Resultados Entre os 309 pacientes entrevistados, 65% eram mulheres, 26% haviam cursado ensino médio completo e 77% tinham renda familiar igual ou menor que três salários mínimos. A frequência de ITB aberrante ≥ 1,3 foi 16,5%. Não foram encontradas correlações estatisticamente significantes nas análises bivariadas entre o ITB aberrante (≥ 1,3) e as variáveis sociodemográficas estudadas (sexo, idade, tempo de duração de diabetes melito, renda familiar e escolaridade). Conclusões A frequência de ITB aberrante entre diabéticos foi de 16,5%. Não encontramos correlação entre as variáveis sociodemográficas (sexo, idade, tempo de DM, escolaridade e renda familiar) e a ocorrência de ITB aberrante.

Abstract Background The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a screening test for peripheral arterial occlusive disease and it can also be used to assess cardiovascular risk. However, in diabetics it can be difficult to interpret because the index may be excessively high because of calcification of the arterial tunica media. Objective To determine the frequency of high ABI in diabetics and to test for associations with sociodemographic variables. Methods This was a descriptive study in which 309 type 2 diabetes patients were interviewed and had their ABI measured. The sample was recruited at a referral center for diabetes and endocrinology (CEDEBA) in Salvador, BA, Brazil. The frequency of excessively high ABI and its relationships with sociodemographic variables such as sex, age and family income were studied. The cutoff point chosen for excessively high ABI was 1.3. Continuous variables were dichotomized. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis and results with p ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. Results A total of 309 patients were interviewed, 65% were women, 26% had graduated from secondary education and 77% had a family income equal to or less than three times the minimum salary. The frequency of excessively high ABI (≥ 1.3) was 16.5%. Bivariate analyses detected no statistically significant correlations between excessively high ABI (≥ 1.3) and the sociodemographic variables studied (sex, age, time since diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, family income and educational level). Conclusions The frequency of high ABI among this sample of diabetics was 16.5%. We did not detect correlations between the sociodemographic variables (sex, age, duration of DM, educational level and family income) and high ABI.

MORTALITY RISK OF COLORECTAL CANCER IN BRAZIL FROM 1980 TO 2013.

BACKGROUND -: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancer worldwide, and variation in its mortality rates indicates the importance of environmental factors in its occurrence. While trend studies have indicated a reduction in colorectal cancer mortality rates in most developed countries, the same trends have not been observed in developing countries. Moreover, trends may differ when analyzed by age and sex. OBJECTIVE: - The present study aimed to analyze the trends in risk of colorectal cancer death in Brazil based on sex and age group. METHODS -: Death records were obtained from the Mortality Information System of the Ministry of Health. The risk of death and the average annual percent changes (AAPC) in the mortality rates were estimated using joinpoint analysis of long-term trends from 1980 to 2013. All of the statistical tests were two-sided and had a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: - Colorectal cancer mortality rates were found to have increased in the last 15 years for both sexes and for all age ranges. The rate ratio (RR) was statistically higher at ages 70 to 79 for men (RR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.26; 1.49) compared to women (RR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.06; 1.24). Increases in AAPC were observed in both sexes. Although men presented higher percent changes (AAPC: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1; 2.6) compared to women (AAPC: 1.2; 95% CI: 0.4; 2.0), this difference was not statistically significant. Growth trends in mortality rates occurred in all age groups except for in women over 70. CONCLUSION: - Unlike Europe and the US, Brazil has shown increases in death rates due to colorectal cancer in the last three decades; however, more favorable trends were observed in women over 70 years old. The promotion of healthier lifestyles in addition to early diagnosis and improved treatment should guide the public health policies targeting reductions in colorectal cancer.

Mortality risk of colorectal cancer in brazil from 1980 to 2013

ABSTRACT Background - Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancer worldwide, and variation in its mortality rates indicates the importance of environmental factors in its occurrence. While trend studies have indicated a reduction in colorectal cancer mortality rates in most developed countries, the same trends have not been observed in developing countries. Moreover, trends may differ when analyzed by age and sex. Objective - The present study aimed to analyze the trends in risk of colorectal cancer death in Brazil based on sex and age group. Methods - Death records were obtained from the Mortality Information System of the Ministry of Health. The risk of death and the average annual percent changes (AAPC) in the mortality rates were estimated using joinpoint analysis of long-term trends from 1980 to 2013. All of the statistical tests were two-sided and had a significance level of 5%. Results - Colorectal cancer mortality rates were found to have increased in the last 15 years for both sexes and for all age ranges. The rate ratio (RR) was statistically higher at ages 70 to 79 for men (RR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.26; 1.49) compared to women (RR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.06; 1.24). Increases in AAPC were observed in both sexes. Although men presented higher percent changes (AAPC: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1; 2.6) compared to women (AAPC: 1.2; 95% CI: 0.4; 2.0), this difference was not statistically significant. Growth trends in mortality rates occurred in all age groups except for in women over 70. Conclusion - Unlike Europe and the US, Brazil has shown increases in death rates due to colorectal cancer in the last three decades; however, more favorable trends were observed in women over 70 years old. The promotion of healthier lifestyles in addition to early diagnosis and improved treatment should guide the public health policies targeting reductions in colorectal cancer.

RESUMO Contexto - O câncer colorretal é um dos cânceres mais comuns em todo o mundo, e a variação em suas taxas de mortalidade indica a importância de fatores ambientais em sua ocorrência. Enquanto os estudos de tendência têm indicado redução nas taxas de mortalidade por câncer colorretal na maioria dos países desenvolvidos, as mesmas tendências não foram observadas nos países em desenvolvimento. Além disso, o comportamento das tendências pode ser diferente quando analisado por idade e sexo. Objetivo - O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar as tendências no risco de morte por câncer colorretal no Brasil com base no sexo e na faixa etária. Métodos - Registros de óbitos foram obtidos do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade do Ministério da Saúde. O risco de morte e a variação percentual anual média (VPAM) das taxas de mortalidade foram calculados usando análise de tendências joinpoint no período de 1980 a 2013. Todos os testes estatísticos foram bicaudais e utilizando um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados - A razão da taxa (RT) foi estatisticamente maior nas idades de 70 a 79 para os homens (RT: 1,37; IC 95%: 1,26; 1,49) em comparação com as mulheres (RT: 1,14; IC 95%: 1,06; 1,24). Aumentos na variação percentual anual média foram observados em ambos os sexos. Embora os homens apresentassem maiores mudanças por cento (VPAM: 1,8; IC 95%: 1,1; 2,6) em comparação com as mulheres (VPAM: 1,2; IC 95%: 0,4; 2,0), esta diferença não foi estatisticamente significativa. Tendências de crescimento nas taxas de mortalidade ocorreram em todas as faixas etárias, exceto para em mulheres com idade superior a 70 anos. Conclusão - Diferentemente da Europa e dos EUA, o Brasil tem mostrado um aumento nas taxas de mortalidade por câncer colorretal nas últimas três décadas; no entanto, as tendências mais favoráveis foram observadas em mulheres com mais de 70 anos de idade. A promoção de estilos de vida mais saudáveis, além de diagnóstico precoce e tratamento adequado, devem orientar as políticas de saúde pública visando reduções na morbimortalidade por câncer colorretal.

Anterior Chamber Epithelial Cyst After Uneventful Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To report the case of an anterior chamber epithelial cyst after uncomplicated deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) treated with a tissue-sparing surgical technique. METHODS: A 35-year-old female patient underwent DALK in her OS because of stage IV keratoconus. The surgery was uneventful, and 3 months postoperatively, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/25. By the sixth postoperative month, a cystic iris lesion was noticed. The lesion grew progressively larger, and BCVA dropped to 20/63 in OS. Cyst excision was performed. RESULTS: No complications possibly related to the surgery were observed. Two years later, BCVA was 20/25 in OS, and there were no signs of cyst recurrence. Histopathological examination of the lesion showed an epithelial implantation cyst. CONCLUSIONS: An anterior chamber epithelial cyst is a sight-threatening condition that may occur after DALK. In selected cases, a conservative surgical approach is an effective treatment option, conveying excellent functional and anatomical outcomes.

Association between occupational exposure to benzene and chromosomal alterations in lymphocytes of Brazilian petrochemical workers removed from exposure.

We aimed to investigate the association between chronic exposure to benzene and genotoxicity in the lymphocytes of workers removed from exposure. The study included 20 workers with hematological disorders who had previously worked in the petrochemical industry of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil; 16 workers without occupational exposure to benzene served as the control group. Chromosomal analysis was performed on lymphocytes from peripheral blood, to assess chromosomal breaks and gaps and to identify aneuploidy. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the mean values between two groups, and Student's t test for comparison of two independent means. The frequency of gaps was statistically higher in and the exposed group than in the controls (2.13 ± 2.86 vs. 0.97 ± 1.27, p = 0.001). The frequency of chromosomal breaks was significantly higher among cases (0.21 ± 0.58) than among controls (0.12 ± 0.4) (p = 0.0002). An association was observed between chromosomal gaps and breaks and occupational exposure to benzene. Our study showed that even when removed from exposure for several years, workers still demonstrated genotoxic damage. Studies are still needed to clarify the long-term genotoxic potential of benzene after removal from exposure.

Tendência da mortalidade por câncer de pâncreas em Salvador - Brasil, 1980 a 2012 / Mortality trends from pancreatic cancer in Salvador - Brazil, 1980 to 2012 / Tendencia de mortalidad por cáncer de páncreas en Salvador - Brasil, 1980 y 2012

Introdução: O câncer de pâncreas apresenta taxas de letalidade que se aproximam de 100%, com cerca de 250 mil mortes anuais em todo mundo. Objetivo: Descrever a tendência da taxa de mortalidade por câncer de pâncreas no Estado da Bahia e na cidade de Salvador, de 1980 a 2012. Método: Estudo de agregados de série temporal, cujos dados sobre os óbitos e sobre a população foram obtidos no Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade e no Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, respectivamente. Para a análise da tendência temporal, utilizou-se a regressão de Poisson, com a avaliação de superdispersão. Resultados: Observou-se uma redução anual média nas taxas padronizadas de mortalidade por câncer de pâncreas de 0,83% entre os homens e de 0,31% entre as mulheres em Salvador. Já no Estado da Bahia, o aumento foi de 2,40% e de 1,97% entre homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Conclusão: O crescimento das taxas no Estado da Bahia evidencia a importância das ações de prevenção primária direcionadas especialmente para o combate ao tabagismo e ao consumo de álcool, principais fatores de risco associados à incidência dessa neoplasia.

Introduction: The pancreatic cancer presents lethality rates approaching 100%, with about 250,000 annual deaths worldwide. Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the mortality rate trends of pancreatic cancer in the State of Bahia and Salvador city, from 1980 to 2012. Method: Aggregate study, whose data on deaths and on population were obtained from the Mortality Information System and from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, respectively. For the analysis of time trends we used Poisson regression with overdispersion assessment. Results: There was an annual average reduction in standardized mortality rates from pancreatic cancer of 0.83% among men and 0.31% among women in Salvador. In the state of Bahia, the rates increased 2.40% and 1.97% among men and women, respectively. Conclusion: The increasing rates in the State of Bahia, indicating the importance of primary prevention actions against tobacco use and alcohol consumption, the main risk factors associated with the incidence of this neoplasm.

Introducción: El cáncer de páncreas presenta tasas de letalidad que se aproximan al 100%, con cerca de 250.000 muertes anuales en todo el mundo. Objetivo: Describir la tendencia de la tasa de mortalidad por cáncer de páncreas en el Estado de Bahia y en la ciudad de Salvador, entre los años 1980 y 2012. Método: se trata de un estudio de agregados de serie temporal cuyos datos sobre los óbitos y la población han sido obtenidos del Sistema de Información sobre Mortalidad y del Instituto Brasileño de Geografía y Estadística, respectivamente. Para el análisis de la tendencia temporal se ha utilizado la regresión de Poisson, con la evaluación de sobredispersión. Resultados: Se observó una reducción anual media de las tasas estandarizadas de mortalidad por cáncer de páncreas del 0,83% entre los hombres y 0,31% entre las mujeres en Salvador. En el Estado de Bahía, se encontró una tendencia creciente, siendo que ese aumento fue de 2,40% y del 1,97% para los hombres y mujeres, respectivamente. Conclusión: El crecimiento de las tasas indica la importancia de las acciones de prevención primaria dirigidas contra el consumo de tabaco y alcohol, los principales factores de riesgo asociados con la incidencia de esta neoplasia.

When do high and low status group members support confrontation? The role of perceived pervasiveness of prejudice.

This paper examines how perceived pervasiveness of prejudice differentially affects high and low status group members' support for a low status group member who confronts. In Experiment 1 (N = 228), men and women read a text describing sexism as rare or as pervasive and subsequently indicated their support for a woman who confronted or did not confront a sexist remark. Experiment 2 (N = 324) specified the underlying process using a self-affirmation manipulation. Results show that men were more supportive of confrontation when sexism was perceived to be rare than when it was pervasive. By contrast, women tended to prefer confrontation when sexism was pervasive relative to when it was rare. Personal self-affirmation decreased men's and increased women's support for confrontation when prejudice was rare, suggesting that men's and women's support for confrontation when prejudice is rare is driven by personal impression management considerations. Implications for understanding how members of low and high status groups respond to prejudice are discussed.

Perda auditiva associada à exposição ocupacional a solventes orgânicos: uma revisão sistemática / Hearing loss associated with organic solvent exposure: a systematic review

Resumo Introdução: evidências apontam produtos químicos como agentes potencialmente otoneurotóxicos, todavia, ainda não há consenso quanto às associações entre as características das exposições e a ototoxicidade das diversas substâncias químicas presentes em ambientes laborais. Objetivo: revisar a literatura científica disponível, a fim de identificar estudos que apontem evidências de associação, ou não associação, entre dano auditivo e a exposição a solventes orgânicos. Método: revisão sistemática da literatura a partir da consulta a bases de dados eletrônicas, considerando artigos originais, publicados de janeiro de 1987 a fevereiro de 2013. Resultados: trinta e um estudos foram incluídos na revisão sistemática. Discussão: os estudos confirmaram a exposição a determinados solventes como fator de risco para perda auditiva de origem ocupacional, sobretudo na presença do ruído. Foram utilizados métodos variados de avaliação e classificação do desfecho coclear e/ou central, que contribuíram para a compreensão da extensão da perda auditiva induzida quimicamente, bem como com a identificação dos grupos populacionais susceptíveis. Contudo, dados sobre procedimentos diagnósticos adequados, níveis seguros e efeito dose-resposta da exposição química ainda não foram totalmente elucidados.

Abstract Introduction: evidences indicate chemicals as potentially otoneurotoxic agents; however, there is no consensus as to the associations between exposure characteristics and the ototoxicity of different chemicals present in industrial environments. Objective: to review the available scientific literature in order to identify studies that point to evidence of association, or non-association, between hearing impairment and occupational exposure to organic solvents. Method: systematic review of the literature, through query on electronic databases, considering only original articles, published from January 1987 to February 2013. Results: thirty-one studies were included in the systematic review. Discussion: studies have confirmed exposure to certain solvents as a risk factor for occupational hearing loss, especially in the presence of noise. Various assessment and classification methods were used regarding cochlear and/or central hearing impairment, contributing to the understanding of the extent of chemical-induced hearing loss as well as to the identification of populations at risk. However, data on appropriate diagnostic procedures, safe levels of chemical exposure and dose-response effect have not yet been fully elucidated.

Tendência da mortalidade por leucemia em Salvador - Brasil, 1980 a 2012 / Mortality trends from leukemia in Salvador - Brazil, 1980 to 2012 / Tendencia de mortalidad por leucemia en Salvador - Brasil, 1980 y 2012

Introdução: A leucemia acomete todas as faixas etárias e raças e é responsável por aproximadamente 3% de todos os casos de câncer no Brasil e no mundo. Objetivo: Descrever a tendência da taxa de mortalidade por leucemia (mieloide e linfoide) no Estado da Bahia e na cidade de Salvador, de 1980 a 2012. Método: Trata-se de estudo de agregados de série temporal, cujos dados sobre os óbitos e sobre a população foram obtidos no Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade e no Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, respectivamente. Para a análise da tendência temporal, utilizou-se a regressão de Poisson, com a avaliação de superdispersão. Os resultados representam redução ou aumento percentual médio anual, ajustados pelo número de óbitos por causa mal definida. Resultados: Observou-se uma redução nas taxas padronizadas de mortalidade por leucemia de 0,81% entre os homens e de 1,16% entre as mulheres em Salvador. Já no Estado da Bahia, o aumento foi de 3,45% e de 2,10% entre homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo sugerem que o período é de crescimento das taxas no Estado da Bahia, evidenciando a importância das ações direcionadas ao acesso precoce ao diagnóstico e ao tratamento.

Introduction: Leukemia affects all age ranges and races and is responsible for approximately 3% of all cases of cancer in Brazil and worldwide. Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the mortality rate trends of leukemia (myeloid and lymphoid) in the State of Bahia and in Salvador city, from 1980 to 2012. Method: This is an aggregate study, whose data on deaths and on population were obtained from the Mortality Information System and from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, respectively. For the analysis of time trends we used Poisson regression with over dispersion assessment. The results represent the annual average percentage of increase or decrease, adjusted by the number of deaths due to undefined cause of death. Results: There was a reduction in standardized mortality rates from leukemia of 0.81% among men and 1.16% among women in Salvador. In the state of Bahia, the rates increased 3.45% and 2.10% among men and women, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that rates are increasing in the State of Bahia, indicating the importance of actions directed at early access to diagnosis and treatment.

Introducción: La leucemia afecta a todos los grupos de edades y razas y es responsable de aproximadamente el 3% de todos los casos de cáncer en Brasil y en todo el mundo. Objetivo: describir la tendencia de la tasa de mortalidad por leucemia (mieloide y linfoide) en el Estado de Bahia y en la ciudad de Salvador, entre los años 1980 y 2012. Método: Se trata de un estudio ecológico cuyos datos sobre los óbitos y la población han sido obtenidos en el Sistema de Información sobre Mortalidad y en el Instituto Brasileño de Geografía y Estadística, respectivamente, investigados en la base de datos del Departamento de Informática del Sistema Nacional de Salud. Para los análisis de la tendencia temporal se ha utilizado la regresión de Poisson, con la evaluación de sobredispersión. Los resultados representan reducción o incremento porcentual mediano anual, ajustados por el número de óbitos por causas mal definidas. Resultados: Se observa una tendencia de reducción de las tasas estandarizadas de mortalidad por leucemia del 0,81% entre los hombres y 1,16% entre las mujeres en Salvador. En el Estado de Bahía, se encontró una tendencia creciente, siendo que ese aumento fue de 3,45% y del 2,10% para los hombres y mujeres, respectivamente. Conclusión: Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que el periodo es de crecimiento de las tasas en el Estado de Bahía, destacando la importancia de las acciones dirigidas a un pronto acceso a un diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Exposição a radiações eletromagnéticas não ionizantes da telefonia celular e sintomas psiquiátricos / Exposición a la radiación electromagnética no ionizante de la telefonía móvil y síntomas psiquiátricos / Exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation from mobile telephony and the association with psychiatric symptoms

Resumo O objetivo desse estudo foi investigar a associação entre exposição a radiações eletromagnéticas não ionizantes da estação radiobase de telefonia celular e sintomas à saúde. Em um estudo transversal realizado em Salvador, Bahia, Brasil, entrevistaram-se 440 indivíduos. Queixas e diagnósticos psiquiátricos constituíram as variáveis dependentes e a distância do domicílio para estação radiobase foi considerada a variável independente principal. Realizou-se análise de regressão logística hierarquizada para avaliação de confundimento e efeito. Observou-se associação entre sintomas psiquiátricos e residir próximo à estação radiobase e formas de uso do telefone celular (sinal de cobertura fraco, perto do corpo, dois ou mais chips e nunca desligar o celular quando dorme) e com uso de outros eletroeletrônicos. Concluiu-se que a exposição à radiação eletromagnética não ionizante de telefonia celular e a outros eletroeletrônicos foi associada aos sintomas psiquiátricos independente do sexo, escolaridade e tabagismo. Recomenda-se a adoção de medidas precaucionárias no sentido de se reduzir este tipo de exposição.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la asociación entre la exposición a la radiación electromagnética no ionizante de una estación base telefonía móvil y sus efectos sobre la salud. Se trata de un estudio transversal en Salvador, Bahía, Brasil, donde se entrevistaron a 440 personas. Las quejas y diagnósticos psiquiátricos fueron las variables dependientes y la distancia del hogar a la estación base se consideró como la variable independiente principal. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística jerárquica para evaluar la confusión y modificación de los efectos. Se observó una asociación entre los efectos psiquiátricos y residir cerca de una estación base y formas de uso del teléfono celular (débil cobertura de la señal, cerca del cuerpo dos o más chips y nunca apagar el teléfono cuando se duerme) y uso de otros aparatos electrónicos. Se concluyó que la exposición a radiación no ionizante de la telefonía móvil y otros aparatos electrónicos se asoció con efectos psiquiátricos, independiente de sexo, la educación y el tabaquismo. Se recomienda la adopción de medidas de precaución, con el fin de reducir la exposición.

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation from mobile phone base stations and psychiatric symptoms. In a cross-sectional study in Salvador, Bahia State, Brazil, 440 individuals were interviewed. Psychiatric complaints and diagnoses were the dependent variables and distance from the individual’s residence to the base station was considered the main independent variable. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess confounding. An association was observed between psychiatric symptoms and residential proximity to the base station and different forms of mobile phone use (making calls with weak signal coverage, keeping the mobile phone close to the body, having two or more chips, and never turning off the phone while sleeping), and with the use of other electronic devices. The study concluded that exposure to electromagnetic radiation from mobile phone base stations and other electronic devices was associated with psychiatric symptoms, independently of gender, schooling, and smoking status. The adoption of precautionary measures to reduce such exposure is recommended.