Assessing proteases and enzymes of the trypanothione system in subpopulations of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Thor strain during macrophage infection.

BACKGROUND: Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Thor strain exhibits a heterogeneous composition comprised of subpopulations with varying levels of infectivity. Clonal subpopulations were previously obtained from the strain Thor by sorting single-parasites and proceeding cultivation. The subpopulations used in this study are named Thor03, Thor 10 and Thor22. OBJECTIVES: Phenotypic characteristics of the parasite, specially focusing on virulence factors and resistance to the antimicrobial mechanisms of macrophages, were investigate in these subpopulations. METHODS: Cellular and molecular biology, as well as biochemistry approaches were applied to obtain the data analysed in this study. FINDINGS: Relative quantification of gene expression was measured for calpain, cysteine protease B (CPB), and subtilisin proteases but no significant differences in these genes' expression among subpopulations was observed. However, subtilisin and CPB proteins were assessed as more abundant in Thor03 by fluorescence-labelled flow cytometry technique. Western Blotting assays, as semi-quantitative analysis in gel, showed higher concentrations of subtilisin (110 to 50 kDa) and CPB (40 to 18 kDa) in extract of intracellular amastigotes from subpopulations Thor03 and Thor10 and calpain (60 to 25 kDa) showed no significant differences among subpopulations. Complementary, higher trypanothione reductase activity was observed in Thor10 intracellular amastigotes and assays of susceptibility to hydrogen peroxide-inducing agents and nitric oxide donors conducted with promastigotes revealed greater resistance to in vitro oxidative stress induction for Thor10, followed by Thor03. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained for the virulence factors explored here suggest how multiple coexisting phenotypic-distinct subpopulations may contribute in adaptability of a single L. (V.) braziliensis strain during infection in the host cells.

Transparent, flexible, and eco-friendly starch-based films for reversible optoelectronic noses for food spoilage monitoring in smart packaging.

A reversible optoelectronic nose is presented consisting of ten acid-base indicators incorporated into a starch-based film, covering a wide pH range. The starch substrate is odorless, biocompatible, flexible, and exhibits high tensile resistance. This optical artificial olfaction system was used to detect the early stages of food decomposition by exposing it to the volatile compounds produced during the spoialge process of three food products (beef, chicken, and pork). A smartphone was used to capture the color changes caused by intermolecular interactions between each dye and the emitted volatiles over time. Digital images were processed to generate a differential color map, which uses the observed color shifts to create a unique signature for each food product. To effectively discriminate among different samples and exposure times, we employed chemometric tools, including hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). This approach detects food deterioration in a practical, cost-effective, and user-friendly manner, making it suitable for smart packaging. Additionally, the use of starch-based films in the food industry is preferable due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability characteristics.

Cytomegalovirus in Adenoma and Carcinoma Lesions: Detecting Mono-Infection and Co-Infection in Salivary Glands.

Salivary glands' neoplasms are hard to diagnose and present a complex etiology. However, several viruses have been detected in these neoplasms, such as HCMV, which can play a role in certain cancers through oncomodulation. The co-infections between HCMV with betaherpesviruses (HHV-6 and HHV-7) and polyomaviruses (JCV and BKV) has been investigated. The aim of the current study is to describe the frequency of HCMV and co-infections in patients presenting neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions, including in the salivary gland. Multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used for betaherpesvirus and polyomavirus quantification purposes after DNA extraction. In total, 50.7% of the 67 analyzed samples were mucocele, 40.3% were adenoma pleomorphic, and 8.9% were mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Overall, 20.9% of samples presented triple-infections with HCMV/HHV-6/HHV-7, whereas 9.0% were co-infections with HCMV/HHV-6 and HCMV/HHV-7. The largest number of co-infections was detected in pleomorphic adenoma cases. All samples tested negative for polyomaviruses, such as BKV and JCV. It was possible to conclude that HCMV can be abundant in salivary gland lesions. A high viral load can be useful to help better understand the etiological role played by viruses in these lesions. A lack of JCV and BKV in the samples analyzed herein does not rule out the involvement of these viruses in one or more salivary gland lesion subtypes.

In the flow of molecular miniaturized fungal diagnosis.

The diagnosis of fungal infections presents several challenges and limitations, stemming from the similarities in symptomatology, diversity of underlying pathogenic species, complexity of fungal biology, and scarcity of rapid, affordable, and point-of-care approaches. In this review, we assess technological advances enabling the conversion of cutting-edge laboratory molecular diagnostic methods to cost-effective microfluidic devices. The most promising strategies toward the design of DNA sequence-based fungal diagnostic systems, capable of capturing and deciphering the highly informative DNA of the pathogen and adapted for resource-limited settings, are discussed, bridging fungal biology, molecular genetics, microfluidics, and biosensors.

Eco-Friendly Transformation of Bioethanol into Ethylene over Bimetallic Nickel-Copper Catalysts.

The conversion of bioethanol to ethylene in gas phase and atmospheric pressure was investigated over γ-Al2O3 supported copper and nickel catalysts. These catalysts were prepared by co-precipitation and pre-treated with hydrogen at 450 °C. Six catalysts were studied at 450 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere. It was found that the monometallic Cu/γ-Al2O3 catalyst exhibited the highest ethylene concentration, with a selectivity of around 90 %. The bioethanol conversion obtained was between 57 %-86 %. Another catalyst that exhibited high concentration values was the NiCu1 : 7 bimetallic catalyst. The catalysts were characterised using XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM, TGA, FTIR, Raman, and N2-physisoption techniques. Furthermore, the Cu/γ-Al2O3 catalyst was studied under different reduction temperatures and gas flow conditions. It was found that the catalysts reduced at 350 °C and 35 ml/min N2 flow presented ethylene concentrations between (0.18-0.21) g/L. Moreover, the catalyst deactivation was identified to be first order and the equation of the Cu/γ-Al2O3 catalyst deactivation model was determined. Carbonaceous deposits over the used sample were not detected by Raman and FTIR. It was determined that the Cu/γ-Al2O3 catalyst deactivation could be mainly attributed to the blocking of the catalytic sites by strongly adsorbed compounds and hydroxylation of the catalyst surface.

Prevalence of chronic cough, its risk factors and population attributable risk in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study: a multinational cross-sectional study.

Background: Chronic cough is a common respiratory symptom with an impact on daily activities and quality of life. Global prevalence data are scarce and derive mainly from European and Asian countries and studies with outcomes other than chronic cough. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of chronic cough across a large number of study sites as well as to identify its main risk factors using a standardised protocol and definition. Methods: We analysed cross-sectional data from 33,983 adults (≥40 years), recruited between Jan 2, 2003 and Dec 26, 2016, in 41 sites (34 countries) from the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study. We estimated the prevalence of chronic cough for each site accounting for sampling design. To identify risk factors, we conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis within each site and then pooled estimates using random-effects meta-analysis. We also calculated the population attributable risk (PAR) associated with each of the identifed risk factors. Findings: The prevalence of chronic cough varied from 3% in India (rural Pune) to 24% in the United States of America (Lexington,KY). Chronic cough was more common among females, both current and passive smokers, those working in a dusty job, those with a history of tuberculosis, those who were obese, those with a low level of education and those with hypertension or airflow limitation. The most influential risk factors were current smoking and working in a dusty job. Interpretation: Our findings suggested that the prevalence of chronic cough varies widely across sites in different world regions. Cigarette smoking and exposure to dust in the workplace are its major risk factors. Funding: Wellcome Trust.

Exercise-based real-time telerehabilitation for older patients recently discharged after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: An extended feasibility study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the extended feasibility of a telerehabilitation program and its effects on physical performance in older adults who have recently undergone transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). METHODS: In this single-center feasibility study, patients underwent an eight-week telerehabilitation program, involving web-based home exercise training twice weekly, an activity tracker, access to an informative website, and one online session with a nurse, starting one-week postoperative. Data collection was performed before surgery and three months postoperative. The feasibility of the intervention was based on recruitment and adherence to the program. As a secondary outcome, we evaluated the change in six-minute walk distance from before surgery to three months postoperative. RESULTS: Forty-one patients scheduled for TAVI were assessed for eligibility; 15 patients (37%) were enrolled. Of these, eight were excluded after surgery due to tiredness (n = 2), non-cardiac related hospital readmission (n = 2), fluctuating health (n = 1), death during hospital stay (n = 1), and reduced cognition (n = 2). Seven patients completed the eight-week web-based intervention and were evaluated three months postoperative. Their median (IQR) age was 83 [81, 87] years, and the sample comprised three men and four women. Their walked distance improved from median (IQR) 262 [199, 463] before surgery, to 381 [267, 521] meters three months postoperative. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: Web-based telerehabilitation, including supervised exercise training, in older adults who have recently undergone TAVI was feasible for a small number of patients who completed the eight-week intervention. This was reflected in an improvement in their walked distance three months after the surgery. However, the low recruitment and retention rates do question the overall feasibility of this intervention in a frail, older population of post-TAVI patients.

The relationship between burden and caregiver's sleep disturbances in dementia: a systematic review.

Caregivers of people living with dementia (PLwD) have a high burden degree that leads to health issues, including sleep. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the impacts of the caregiving burden on caregiver's sleep disturbances. Methods: This systematic review involved a qualitative analysis of publications on Web of Science and Pubmed/Medline databases published between February 2018 and August 2022. Results: A total of 27 studies were identified and analyzed. Caregiver's sleep presents impairments in sleep latency, sleep fragmentation, sleep duration, subjective sleep quality, daytime dysfunction, and insomnia. Caregiver's distress and depressive symptoms have a dual relationship with sleep problems. Conclusion: Sleep disturbances presented by caregivers are correlated with higher burden levels and lead to more vulnerability to psychiatric symptoms and health issues.

Cuidadores de pessoas com demência possuem alto grau de sobrecarga que impacta de forma objetiva o sono e suas dimensões. Objetivo: Este estudo teve o objetivo de analisar o impacto da sobrecarga nas alterações do sono do cuidador. Métodos: Esta revisão sistemática envolveu a análise de resultados quantitativos e qualitativos de publicações das bases de dados Web of Science e PubMed/ Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline) publicadas entre fevereiro de 2018 e agosto de 2022. Resultados: O total de 27 estudos foi identificado e analisado. Cuidadores apresentam prejuízos na latência, fragmentação, duração e qualidade subjetiva do sono, disfunção diurna e insônia. O estresse e sintomas depressivos apresentados pelo cuidador possuem com o sono uma relação bidirecional. Conclusão: Os distúrbios do sono apresentados pelos cuidadores estão correlacionados com o alto nível de sobrecarga e geram maior vulnerabilidade para sintomas psiquiátricos e problemas de saúde.

Intranasally Delivered Adenoviral Vector Protects Chickens against Newcastle Disease Virus: Vaccine Manufacturing and Stability Assessments for Liquid and Lyophilized Formulations.

Newcastle disease (ND) remains a critical disease affecting poultry in sub-Saharan Africa. In some countries, repeated outbreaks have a major impact on local economies and food security. Recently, we developed an adenovirus-vectored vaccine encoding the Fusion protein from an Ethiopian isolate of Newcastle disease virus (NDV). The adenoviral vector was designed, and a manufacturing process was developed in the context of the Livestock Vaccine Innovation Fund initiative funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) of Canada. The industrially relevant recombinant vaccine technology platform is being transferred to the National Veterinary Institute (Ethiopia) for veterinary applications. Here, a manufacturing process using HEK293SF suspension cells cultured in stirred-tank bioreactors for the vaccine production is proposed. Taking into consideration supply chain limitations, options for serum-free media selection were evaluated. A streamlined downstream process including a filtration, an ultrafiltration, and a concentration step was developed. With high volumetric yields (infectious titers up to 5 × 109 TCID50/mL) in the culture supernatant, the final formulations were prepared at 1010 TCID50/mL, either in liquid or lyophilized forms. The liquid formulation was suitable and safe for mucosal vaccination and was stable for 1 week at 37 °C. Both the liquid and lyophilized formulations were stable after 6 months of storage at 4 °C. We demonstrate that the instillation of the adenoviral vector through the nasal cavity can confer protection to chickens against a lethal challenge with NDV. Overall, a manufacturing process for the adenovirus-vectored vaccine was developed, and protective doses were determined using a convenient route of delivery. Formulation and storage conditions were established, and quality control protocols were implemented.

Astrocytoma Mimicking Herpetic Meningoencephalitis: The Role of Non-Invasive Multimodal Monitoring in Neurointensivism.

Neuromonitoring is a critical tool for emergency rooms and intensive care units to promptly identify and treat brain injuries. The case report of a patient with status epilepticus necessitating orotracheal intubation and intravenous lorazepam administration is presented. A pattern of epileptiform activity was detected in the left temporal region, and intravenous Acyclovir was administered based on the diagnostic hypothesis of herpetic meningoencephalitis. The neurointensivist opted for multimodal non-invasive bedside neuromonitoring due to the complexity of the patient's condition. A Brain4care (B4C) non-invasive intracranial compliance monitor was utilized alongside the assessment of an optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) and transcranial Doppler (TCD). Based on the collected data, a diagnosis of intracranial hypertension (ICH) was made and a treatment plan was developed. After the neurosurgery team's evaluation, a stereotaxic biopsy of the temporal lesion revealed a grade 2 diffuse astrocytoma, and an urgent total resection was performed. Research suggests that monitoring patients in a dedicated neurologic intensive care unit (Neuro ICU) can lead to improved outcomes and shorter hospital stays. In addition to being useful for patients with a primary brain injury, neuromonitoring may also be advantageous for those at risk of cerebral hemodynamic impairment. Lastly, it is essential to note that neuromonitoring technologies are non-invasive, less expensive, safe, and bedside-accessible approaches with significant diagnostic and monitoring potential for patients at risk of brain abnormalities. Multimodal neuromonitoring is a vital tool in critical care units for the identification and management of acute brain trauma as well as for patients at risk of cerebral hemodynamic impairment.

"O nome era de homem, mas era um corpo de mulher": a população transexual na Estratégia Saúde da Família / "It was a man's name but a woman's body": the transexual population in the family health strategy / "El nombre era de hombre, pero era un cuerpo de mujer": la población transexual en la estrategia de la salud de la familia

Apesar da criação de políticas que buscam equidade para as pessoas transexuais, reconhece-se uma realidade alarmante evidenciada pela elevada vulnerabilidade. Ao buscar assistência à saúde, essas pessoas vivenciam experiências que produzem barreiras a esse acesso. Objetiva-se analisar os desafios no cuidado à saúde dessa população nos serviços de Estratégia Saúde da Família, em um município de São Paulo, caracterizando as representações dos profissionais, ofertas de cuidado e capacitações. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa e exploratória, realizada a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas. A investigação é referenciada pela análise de conteúdo segundo Minayo e por estatística descritiva. Os núcleos elaborados foram: "A demanda existe", "O vazio formativo" e "Ecos da violência". Os relatos apontam para estigmas, falta de políticas públicas, preconceitos e violências associadas às pessoas transexuais.

Despite the creation of policies that seek to promote equality for transexuals, an alarming reality exists characterized by a high level of vulnerability. When seeking health care, transexuals have experiences that create barriers to access. The aim of this study was to analyze the health care challenges for this group in family health strategy services in the municipality of São Paulo, characterizing the representations of professionals, availability of care and training. We conducted an exploratory study using a qualitative design based on semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using content analysis as proposed by Minayo and descriptive statistics, resulting in the following units of analysis: demand exists; the training void; and echoes of violence. The interviewees' accounts point to stigma, lack of public policy, prejudice and violence against transexuals.

A pesar de la creación de políticas que buscan equidad para los transexuales, se reconoce una realidad alarmante puesta en evidencia por la alta vulnerabilidad. Al buscar asistencia para la salud, ellos viven experiencias que producen barreras para el acceso. El objetivo es analizar los desafíos en el cuidado de la salud de esa población en los servicios de Estrategia de Salud de la Familia, en el municipio de São Paulo, caracterizando las representaciones de los profesionales, ofertas de cuidado y capacitaciones. Se caracteriza una investigación cualitativa y exploratoria, realizada por entrevistas semiestructuradas. La referencia del análisis es el análisis de contenido según Minayo y la estadística descriptiva. Los núcleos elaborados fueron: la demanda existe. El vacío formativo; Ecos de la violencia. Los relatos señalan estigmas, falta de políticas públicas, prejuicios y violencias relacionadas a los transexuales.

Assessing proteases and enzymes of the trypanothione system in subpopulations of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Thor strain during macrophage infection

BACKGROUND Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Thor strain exhibits a heterogeneous composition comprised of subpopulations with varying levels of infectivity. Clonal subpopulations were previously obtained from the strain Thor by sorting single-parasites and proceeding cultivation. The subpopulations used in this study are named Thor03, Thor 10 and Thor22. OBJECTIVES Phenotypic characteristics of the parasite, specially focusing on virulence factors and resistance to the antimicrobial mechanisms of macrophages, were investigate in these subpopulations. METHODS Cellular and molecular biology, as well as biochemistry approaches were applied to obtain the data analysed in this study. FINDINGS Relative quantification of gene expression was measured for calpain, cysteine protease B (CPB), and subtilisin proteases but no significant differences in these genes' expression among subpopulations was observed. However, subtilisin and CPB proteins were assessed as more abundant in Thor03 by fluorescence-labelled flow cytometry technique. Western Blotting assays, as semi-quantitative analysis in gel, showed higher concentrations of subtilisin (110 to 50 kDa) and CPB (40 to 18 kDa) in extract of intracellular amastigotes from subpopulations Thor03 and Thor10 and calpain (60 to 25 kDa) showed no significant differences among subpopulations. Complementary, higher trypanothione reductase activity was observed in Thor10 intracellular amastigotes and assays of susceptibility to hydrogen peroxide-inducing agents and nitric oxide donors conducted with promastigotes revealed greater resistance to in vitro oxidative stress induction for Thor10, followed by Thor03. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The data obtained for the virulence factors explored here suggest how multiple coexisting phenotypic-distinct subpopulations may contribute in adaptability of a single L. (V.) braziliensis strain during infection in the host cells.

Impacto da protetização auditiva na qualidade de vida do adulto com deficiência auditiva: revisão de escopo / Impact of hearing aids on the quality of life of adults with adult disabilities: scope review

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar os benefícios da protetização auditiva na qualidade de vida do adulto com deficiência auditiva. Estratégia de pesquisa Revisão de escopo, guiada pelas recomendações PRISMA. Critérios de seleção A busca foi realizada com o auxílio dos unitermos "auxiliares de audição", "aparelho auditivo", "implante coclear", "fonoaudiologia", "deficiência auditiva", "perda auditiva", "qualidade de vida", e seus respectivos em inglês e espanhol, nos bancos virtuais de dados: LILACS, SciELO, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science e OpenGrey. Os dados foram analisados qualitativamente. Resultados Foram identificados 1.312 registros e selecionados 6 artigos, com população protetizada auditivamente, dos 18 aos 92 anos, de ambos os gêneros, usuários de implante coclear e aparelho de amplificação sonora individual. Foram utilizados os seguintes instrumentos: Questionário de avaliação das expectativas do adulto/idoso novo usuário de próteses auditivas, International Outcome Inventory For Hearing Aids, Questionário Nijmegen de Implantes Cocleares, Questionário de Satisfação do Cliente, Caregiver Strain Questionnaire, Formulário de Questionário Relativo ao Índice, World Health Organization Quality of Life-bref, Glasgow Health Status Inventory, Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit, Cochlear Implant Quality of Life, Caregiver Burden Scale, Escala Quantificada de Denver e Escala Visual Analógica. Os resultados indicaram melhor qualidade de vida nos domínios testados, tanto na visão dos adultos surdos quanto na de seus parceiros. Conclusão Apesar da heterogeneidade dos protocolos de qualidade de vida utilizados nos estudos selecionados, foi possível verificar que a protetização auditiva melhora a qualidade de vida do adulto com deficiência auditiva.

ABSTRACT Purpose To verify the benefits of hearing aids in the quality of life of adults with hearing loss. Research strategy Scoping review guided by PRISMA recommendations. Selection criteria with the help of the keywords "hearing aids", "hearing aid", "cochlear implant", "speech therapy", "hearing impairment", "hearing loss", "quality of life", and their respective in English and Spanish in the virtual databases: LILACS, SciELO, PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Open Grey. Qualitatively analyzed. Results 1,312 records were identified and six articles were selected, with a hearing aided population from 18 to 92 years old, from both genders, cochlear implant and individual sound amplification device users. Questionnaires were used (assessment of expectations of adults/elderly users of hearing aids, International Outcome Inventory For Hearing Aids, Nijmegen Cochlear Implant, Satisfaction, Caregiver Strain Questionnaire, Relative to the Index, World Health Organization Quality of Life-bref, Glasgow Health Status Inventory, Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit, Cochlear Implant Quality of Life and scales (Care Giving Burden Scale), Denver Quantified and visual analog). The results indicated a better quality of life in the domains tested, both in the view of deaf adults and their partners. Conclusion Despite the heterogeneity of the quality of life protocols used in the selected studies, it was possible to verify that hearing aids increase the quality of life of adults with hearing loss.

Breastfeeding duration and eating behavior in early childhood: a systematic review / Duração da amamentação e comportamentos alimentares na primeira infância: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the influence of breastfeeding duration on eating behavior in children aged two to six years. Methods: this review was conducted by PRISMA guidelines. SciELO, Lilacs, Embase, and PubMed databases were researched by using a specific syntax, for studies published from 2000 to 2020. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklist was used to assess the risk of study bias. Results: a total of 26,211 articles were identified, of which seven were included in the study. The results showed a significant association in four studies. All authors used their own questionnaires to assess breastfeeding exposure; there was no standard classification of exclusive and total breastfeeding duration. The breastfeeding duration was associated with reduced food neophobia, lower scores on the food responsiveness subscale, and lower 'picky eating' behavior. Validated instruments were predominantly used to assess the outcome of eating behavior; however, this assessment was not similar between studies. Conclusion: a significant association was observed between breastfeeding duration and eating behavior in children aged two to six years. Further research should be conducted to describe the mechanisms involved in this association.

Resumo Objetivos: analisar a influência da duração do aleitamento materno no comportamento alimentar em crianças de dois a seis anos. Métodos: esta revisão foi conduzida de acordo com as diretrizes PRISMA. As bases de dados SciELO, Lilacs, Embase e PubMed foram pesquisadas usando uma sintaxe específica, para estudos publicados de 2000 a 2020. O Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklist foi utilizado para avaliar o risco de viés do estudo. Resultados: foram identificados 26.211 artigos, dos quais sete foram incluídos no estudo. Os resultados mostraram associação significativa em quatro estudos. Todos os autores usaram seus próprios questionários para avaliar a exposição à amamentação; não havia uma classificação padrão de duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo e total. A duração do aleitamento materno foi associada à redução da neofobia alimentar, menores escores na subescala de responsividade alimentar e menor comportamento alimentar exigente. Instrumentos validados foram usados predominantemente para avaliar o resultado do comportamento alimentar, no entanto, essa avaliação não foi semelhante entre os estudos. Conclusão: observou-se associação significativa entre a duração da amamentação e o comportamento alimentar em crianças de dois a seis anos. Mais pesquisas devem ser realizadas para descrever os mecanismos envolvidos nesta associação.

The relationship between burden and caregiver's sleep disturbances in dementia: a systematic review / A relação entre sobrecarga e sono do cuidador na demência: um estudo de revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Caregivers of people living with dementia (PLwD) have a high burden degree that leads to health issues, including sleep. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the impacts of the caregiving burden on caregiver's sleep disturbances. Methods: This systematic review involved a qualitative analysis of publications on Web of Science and Pubmed/Medline databases published between February 2018 and August 2022. Results: A total of 27 studies were identified and analyzed. Caregiver's sleep presents impairments in sleep latency, sleep fragmentation, sleep duration, subjective sleep quality, daytime dysfunction, and insomnia. Caregiver's distress and depressive symptoms have a dual relationship with sleep problems. Conclusion: Sleep disturbances presented by caregivers are correlated with higher burden levels and lead to more vulnerability to psychiatric symptoms and health issues.

RESUMO Cuidadores de pessoas com demência possuem alto grau de sobrecarga que impacta de forma objetiva o sono e suas dimensões. Objetivo: Este estudo teve o objetivo de analisar o impacto da sobrecarga nas alterações do sono do cuidador. Métodos: Esta revisão sistemática envolveu a análise de resultados quantitativos e qualitativos de publicações das bases de dados Web of Science e PubMed/ Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline) publicadas entre fevereiro de 2018 e agosto de 2022. Resultados: O total de 27 estudos foi identificado e analisado. Cuidadores apresentam prejuízos na latência, fragmentação, duração e qualidade subjetiva do sono, disfunção diurna e insônia. O estresse e sintomas depressivos apresentados pelo cuidador possuem com o sono uma relação bidirecional. Conclusão: Os distúrbios do sono apresentados pelos cuidadores estão correlacionados com o alto nível de sobrecarga e geram maior vulnerabilidade para sintomas psiquiátricos e problemas de saúde.

Hemolymph of triatomines presents fungistatic activity against Cryptococcus neoformans and improves macrophage function through MCP-I/TNF-α increase

Triatomines are blood-feeding arthropods belonging to the subfamily Triatominae (Hemiptera; Reduviidae), capable of producing immunomodulatory and water-soluble molecules in their hemolymph, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). In this work, we evaluated the antifungal and immunomodulatory activity of the hemolymph of Meccus pallidipennis (MPH) and Rhodnius prolixus (RPH) against Cryptococcus neoformans. Methods: We assessed the activity of the hemolymph of both insects on fungal growth by a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay. Further, RAW 264.7 macrophages were cultivated with hemolymph and challenged with C. neoformans. Then, their phagocytic and killing activities were assessed. The cytokines MCP-1, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-6 were measured in culture supernatants 4- and 48-hours post-infection. Results: Both hemolymph samples directly affected the growth rate of the fungus in a dose-dependent manner. Either MPH or RPH was capable of inhibiting fungal growth by at least 70%, using the lowest dilution (1:20). Treatment of RAW 264.7 macrophages with hemolymph of both insects was capable of increasing the production of MCP-I and TNF-α. In addition, when these cells were stimulated with hemolymph in the presence of C. neoformans, a 2- and a 4-fold increase in phagocytic rate was observed with MPH and RPH, respectively, when compared to untreated cells. For the macrophage killing activity, MPH decreased in approximately 30% the number of viable yeasts inside the cells compared to untreated control; however, treatment with RPH could not reduce the total number of viable yeasts. MPH was also capable of increasing MHC-II expression on macrophages. Regarding the cytokine production, MCP-I and TNF-α, were increased in the supernatant of macrophages treated with both hemolymphs, 4 and 48 hours after stimulation. Conclusion: These results suggested that hemolymph of triatomines may represent a source of molecules capable of presenting antifungal and immunomodulatory activity in macrophages during fungal infection.(AU)

Percepção de autoeficácia acadêmica e contexto escolar: o que dizem os estudantes do ensino médio? / Perception of academic self-efficacy and school context: what do high school students say? / Percepción de autoeficacia académica y contexto escolar: ¿qué dicen los estudiantes de la secundaria?

A crença de autoeficácia é um dos mecanismos centrais para avaliar as representações dos estudantes quanto a suas capacidades de organizar e realizar as ações necessárias para obter um bom desempenho acadêmico. Sendo assim, este estudo de caso qualitativo objetivou analisar os possíveis impactos das variáveis do contexto escolar sobre as crenças de autoeficácia acadêmica. Participaram do estudo 15 estudantes, do 1º ao 3º ano do ensino médio, de uma escola pública do interior de São Paulo. O instrumento utilizado foi uma entrevista semiestruturada. Os resultados obtidos possibilitaram a identificação de três categorias de análise: autoeficácia acadêmica percebida e as variáveis escolares para sua promoção e manutenção; autoeficácia para a participação e o protagonismo na vida escolar; e autoeficácia para a aquisição dos conhecimentos escolares. Esses achados possibilitaram compreender que os estudantes possuem uma crença de autoeficácia positiva quanto ao julgamento mais global das vivências acadêmicas. Entretanto, demonstram esbarrar em divergências com o ambiente e as possibilidades dispostas para que exerçam o desempenho almejado.(AU)

The belief in self-efficacy is one of the central mechanisms for evaluating students' representations of their ability to organize and perform the necessary actions to achieve good academic performance. Thus, this qualitative case study aimed to analyze the impacts of the school context on academic self-efficacy beliefs. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 students from the first to the third high school year of a public school in the countryside of São Paulo. Data were divided into three analytical categories: perceived academic self-efficacy and school variables that act for its promotion and maintenance; self-efficacy for participation and prominence in school life; and self-efficacy for the acquisition of school knowledge. The results indicate that students have a positive self-efficacy belief about the overall academic experiences, but that they often stumble upon divergencies between the school environment and the opportunities for achieving the desired performance.(AU)

La creencia en la autoeficacia es uno de los mecanismos centrales para evaluar las representaciones de los estudiantes en cuanto a sus capacidades de organizar y realizar las acciones necesarias para obtener un buen desempeño académico. Este estudio de caso cualitativo tuvo como objetivo analizar los impactos que las variables del contexto escolar pueden desempeñar sobre las creencias de autoeficacia académica. Participaron en el estudio 15 estudiantes del 1.º al 3.º año de la secundaria de una escuela pública en el estado de São Paulo. El instrumento utilizado en la investigación fue entrevista semiestructurada. Los resultados obtenidos posibilitaron identificar tres categorías de análisis: autoeficacia académica percibida y variables escolares para su promoción y mantenimiento; autoeficacia en la participación y el protagonismo en la vida escolar; y autoeficacia en la adquisición de conocimientos escolares. Tales hallazgos revelaron que los estudiantes tienen una creencia de autoeficacia positiva en cuanto al juicio más global de las vivencias académicas. A pesar de que demuestran encontrar divergencias entre el ambiente y las posibilidades dispuestas para ejercitar el desempeño a que aspiran.(AU)

Análise do monitoramento ambiental da incineração de resíduos sólidos urbanos na Europa e a necessidade de alterações na legislação brasileira / Environmental monitoring analysis of municipal solid waste incineration in Europe and the needs for changes in brazilian legislation

RESUMO A incineração é uma tecnologia de tratamento térmico de resíduos sólidos cujo principal objetivo é a redução do volume e da massa dos resíduos a serem depositados em aterros. Os incineradores construídos nas últimas décadas trazem a possibilidade de recuperação energética dos resíduos, na forma de vapor e/ou energia elétrica, entretanto essa tecnologia ainda gera questionamentos sobre possíveis impactos ambientais relacionados às suas emissões. A incineração é regulada na Europa por legislação específica que, entre outras questões, obriga a divulgação de dados de monitoramento ambiental de incineradores. No presente trabalho, são analisados dados de emissões atmosféricas de incineradores associados à Confederation of European Waste-to-Energy Plants (CEWEP), por meio de buscas nos websites dos respectivos incineradores, em artigos científicos e relatórios técnicos. Foram examinados dados de monitoramento de todos os poluentes de medição contínua e periódica definidos na legislação da UE, em séries temporais de 2010 a 2017. Todos os valores médios anuais de emissões nos incineradores analisados estiveram abaixo dos limites definidos pela diretiva europeia, com pequena variação ao longo dos anos observados. A comparação dos padrões de emissão europeus com os brasileiros mostra a necessidade de mudança na legislação local referente à incineração para que, caso essa tecnologia seja implementada no Brasil, ela possa operar respeitando limites seguros, com garantia de minimização de impactos ao ambiente e às populações do entorno.

Abstract Incineration is a solid waste treatment technology whose main purpose is to reduce the volume and mass of the waste to be disposed of in landfills. The incinerators built in the last decades bring the possibility of energy recovery from waste, in the form of steam and/or electric energy. However, this technology still raises questions about possible environmental impacts related to its emissions. Incineration is regulated in Europe through specific legislation which, among other issues, requires the disclosure of environmental monitoring data for incinerators. In the present work, atmospheric emissions data from incinerators associated with the Confederation of European Waste-to-Energy Plants (CEWEP) are analyzed by searching the websites of the respective incinerators, scientific articles and technical reports. Monitoring data on all continuous and periodic measured pollutants defined in the legislation in time series from 2010 to 2017 were analyzed. All annual average emission values of the incinerators analyzed were below the limits defined by the European Union's Directive, with little variation over the observed years. The comparison of European with Brazilian emission standards shows the need for a change in local legislation on incineration so that, if this technology is implemented in Brazil, it will operate within safe limits, with a guarantee of minimizing impacts on the environment and surrounding populations.

Associations between teacher self-efficacy and the use of Objective Structured Clinical Examination in medical education / Associações entre a autoeficácia docente e a utilização do Objective Structured Clinical Examination na educação médica

Abstract: Introduction: The inclusion of new methodologies and assessments in the medical education area has indicated the need to understand teachers' perception of their own ability to use them adequately. Objective: Thus, the present study aimed to investigate possible associations between teacher self-efficacy and the use of OSCE. Method: The Teacher Self-efficacy Scale and Self-Efficacy Sources Scale and a characterization questionnaire were used. Forty-seven medical teachers from a private university, of both genders, aged between 31 and 78 years, participated in the study. Results: The results indicated that the factors Social Persuasion and Vicarious Learning were the most endorsed, suggesting that these sources are the ones that interfere the most in the formation of the participants' beliefs. There was only one positive and statistically significant correlation, with a weak magnitude, established between the Intentionality of Action Efficacy and Vicarious Learning. The other identified correlations were statistically negative and of moderate magnitude. Conclusions: The teachers who agreed with some important characteristics about the OSCE method also showed higher levels of self-efficacy. Therefore, professionals with greater perseverance, resilience and confidence, have also been more committed to teaching, research and student assistance.

Resumo: Introdução: A inserção de novas metodologias e avaliações na área da educação médica tem indicado a necessidade de compreender a percepção dos docentes sobre sua própria capacidade de utilizá-las adequadamente. Objetivo: Com base nisso, este estudo buscou investigar as possíveis associações entre a autoeficácia docente e o uso do OSCE. Método: Utilizaram-se a Escala de Autoeficácia do Professor, a Escala sobre Fontes de Autoeficácia e um questionário de caracterização. Participaram 47 docentes de Medicina de uma universidade privada, de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 31 e 78 anos. Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que os fatores persuasão social e aprendizagem vicária foram os mais endossados, sugerindo que essas fontes são as de maior interferência na formação de crenças dos participantes. Houve apenas uma correlação positiva e com significância estatística, com magnitude fraca, estabelecida entre eficácia na intencionalidade da ação e aprendizagem vicária. As demais correlações encontradas se demonstraram estatisticamente em sentido negativo e com magnitudes moderadas. Conclusões: Os docentes concordantes com algumas características importantes sobre o método OSCE apresentaram maiores níveis de autoeficácia, e isso significa que os profissionais com alto nível de perseverança, superação, confiança e resiliência são mais comprometidos com o ensino, a pesquisa e a assistência estudantil.

Práticas educativas de genitores e professores e repertório comportamental infantil / Educational practices of parents and teachers and children's behavioral repertoire

O objetivo deste estudo é descrever, a partir de múltiplos instrumentos e informantes, o repertório comportamental (habilidades sociais e problemas de comportamento) de quatro crianças de 6 a 7 anos, duas de cada sexo, e as práticas educativas positivas (habilidades sociais educativas) e negativas de quatro mães, quatro pais e duas professoras dos primeiros anos do Ensino Fundamental. Foram utilizados na coleta de dados instrumentos de relato e protocolo de observação de interações genitores-criança a partir de situação de brincadeira. Os resultados reafirmam que práticas positivas estão relacionadas à baixa frequência de problemas de comportamento e presença de habilidades sociais e, ao contrário, práticas negativas estão relacionadas a problemas de comportamento. A literatura tem encontrado tais relações entre pais e filhos e com a presente pesquisa nota-se o mesmo no que se refere à interação professor-aluno.

The aim of this study is to describe, from multiple instruments and informants, the behavioral repertoire (social skills and behavioral problems) of four children aged six to seven years old, two of each sex, and positive educational practices (educational social skills) and negative practices of four mothers, four fathers and two teachers from the first years of elementary school. Data collection instruments and protocol for observing the parent-child interactions, from a situation of play, were used. The results reaffirm that positive practices are related to the low frequency of behavioral problems and the presence of social skills, and, on the contrary, negative practices are related to behavioral problems. The literature has found such relationships between parents and children and with the present research the same can be noticed with regard to teacher-student interaction.