[Difficult situations and feelings in palliative oncology care]. / Situações difíceis e sentimentos no cuidado paliativo oncológico.

The act of caring for people in pain, shortness of breath, and imminent death on a daily basis can intensify difficult situations for health professionals. However, difficult situations are rarely discussed in the services and in the professional training process. This study aimed to analyze difficult situations and feelings that emerge from healthcare. This is a phenomenological and qualitative study based on 30 difficult situations of health professionals who work exclusively in palliative oncological care. The interviews were conducted from August to February 2020. The results show that the main difficulties were motivated by identification (when the professional recognizes similarities in the patient they are caring for), a bad death (with suffering), caring for young patients, the death of a mother with a small child, and when there was a divergence between what the professional proposed and the patient's choice. There was a relationship between types of difficult situations and professional category. The professionals expressed both unpleasant feelings (sadness, impotence, anguish, fear) and pleasant feelings (compassion, gratitude). The results show that the concealment of the dying process throughout the societies' development turned it into a taboo, causing distress even in those who work in palliative care. They also show an important subjective dimension of care, usually neglected, which generates suffering, but also resignification. To properly provide care, health professionals must find meaning in the work, made possible by the modification of the their internal mindset via experience, which generates transformation, new meaning, and knowledge from praxis.

O ato de cuidar cotidianamente de pessoas com dor, falta de ar e em morte iminente pode potencializar situações difíceis para profissionais da área. Contudo, raramente são discutidas nos serviços e no processo de formação profissional. Objetivou-se, então, analisar situações difíceis e sentimentos que emergem do cuidado de saúde. Esta é uma pesquisa de perspectiva fenomenológica e qualitativa, baseada em 30 situações difíceis de profissionais de saúde que atuam exclusivamente no cuidado paliativo oncológico. As entrevistas foram realizadas de agosto de 2019 a fevereiro de 2020. Os resultados mostram que as principais dificuldades foram motivadas pela identificação (quando o profissional vê semelhança com o paciente que cuida), morte ruim (com sofrimento), quando o paciente era jovem, morte de mãe com filho pequeno e quando havia divergência entre o proposto pelo profissional e a recusa do paciente. Percebeu-se relação entre tipos de situações difíceis e categoria profissional. Os profissionais expressaram tanto sentimentos desagradáveis (tristeza, impotência, angústia, medo) quanto agradáveis (compaixão, gratidão). Os resultados mostram que o ocultamento do processo de morrer ao longo do desenvolvimento civilizatório transformou-o em tabu, angustiante inclusive para quem trabalha com cuidados paliativos. Contribuem, também, para mostrar uma importante dimensão subjetiva do cuidado, geralmente negligenciada, que gera sofrimento, mas também ressignificação. Para que alguém cumpra seu propósito, é necessário encontrar sentido no trabalho, possibilitado pela modificação do estado interno do profissional pela experiência, que gera transformação e novo significado e saber a partir da práxis.

El acto de atender diariamente a personas con dolor, dificultad para respirar y muerte inminente puede potenciar situaciones difíciles para los profesionales del área. Sin embargo, casi nunca se discuten en los servicios y en el proceso de formación profesional. El objetivo fue analizar situaciones difíciles y sentimientos que emergen del cuidado de la salud. Investigación de perspectiva fenomenológica y cualitativa, basada en 30 situaciones difíciles de profesionales de la salud que actúan exclusivamente en el cuidado paliativo oncológico. Las entrevistas se realizaron entre agosto y febrero de 2020. Los resultados enseñan que las principales dificultades se motivaron por la identificación (cuando el profesional ve similitud con el paciente que atiende), mala muerte (con sufrimiento), cuando el paciente era joven, muerte de una madre con hijo pequeño y cuando hubo discrepancia entre lo propuesto por el profesional y el rechazo del paciente. Se observó una relación entre tipos de situaciones difíciles y categoría profesional. Los profesionales expresaron tanto sentimientos desagradables (tristeza, impotencia, angustia, miedo) como agradables (compasión, gratitud). Los resultados indican que ocultar el proceso de morir a lo largo del desarrollo de la civilización lo convirtió en un tabú e, incluso, es angustiante para las personas que trabajan con cuidados paliativos. También contribuye a mostrar una importante dimensión subjetiva del cuidado, generalmente ignorada, que genera sufrimiento, pero también resignificación. Para que cumpla con su propósito es necesario encontrar sentido en el trabajo, posibilitado por la modificación del estado interno del profesional a través de la experiencia, generando transformación y un nuevo significado y conocimiento a partir de la praxis.

Situações difíceis e sentimentos no cuidado paliativo oncológico / Difficult situations and feelings in palliative oncology care / Situaciones difíciles y sentimientos en el cuidado paliativo oncológico

O ato de cuidar cotidianamente de pessoas com dor, falta de ar e em morte iminente pode potencializar situações difíceis para profissionais da área. Contudo, raramente são discutidas nos serviços e no processo de formação profissional. Objetivou-se, então, analisar situações difíceis e sentimentos que emergem do cuidado de saúde. Esta é uma pesquisa de perspectiva fenomenológica e qualitativa, baseada em 30 situações difíceis de profissionais de saúde que atuam exclusivamente no cuidado paliativo oncológico. As entrevistas foram realizadas de agosto de 2019 a fevereiro de 2020. Os resultados mostram que as principais dificuldades foram motivadas pela identificação (quando o profissional vê semelhança com o paciente que cuida), morte ruim (com sofrimento), quando o paciente era jovem, morte de mãe com filho pequeno e quando havia divergência entre o proposto pelo profissional e a recusa do paciente. Percebeu-se relação entre tipos de situações difíceis e categoria profissional. Os profissionais expressaram tanto sentimentos desagradáveis (tristeza, impotência, angústia, medo) quanto agradáveis (compaixão, gratidão). Os resultados mostram que o ocultamento do processo de morrer ao longo do desenvolvimento civilizatório transformou-o em tabu, angustiante inclusive para quem trabalha com cuidados paliativos. Contribuem, também, para mostrar uma importante dimensão subjetiva do cuidado, geralmente negligenciada, que gera sofrimento, mas também ressignificação. Para que alguém cumpra seu propósito, é necessário encontrar sentido no trabalho, possibilitado pela modificação do estado interno do profissional pela experiência, que gera transformação e novo significado e saber a partir da práxis.

The act of caring for people in pain, shortness of breath, and imminent death on a daily basis can intensify difficult situations for health professionals. However, difficult situations are rarely discussed in the services and in the professional training process. This study aimed to analyze difficult situations and feelings that emerge from healthcare. This is a phenomenological and qualitative study based on 30 difficult situations of health professionals who work exclusively in palliative oncological care. The interviews were conducted from August to February 2020. The results show that the main difficulties were motivated by identification (when the professional recognizes similarities in the patient they are caring for), a bad death (with suffering), caring for young patients, the death of a mother with a small child, and when there was a divergence between what the professional proposed and the patient's choice. There was a relationship between types of difficult situations and professional category. The professionals expressed both unpleasant feelings (sadness, impotence, anguish, fear) and pleasant feelings (compassion, gratitude). The results show that the concealment of the dying process throughout the societies' development turned it into a taboo, causing distress even in those who work in palliative care. They also show an important subjective dimension of care, usually neglected, which generates suffering, but also resignification. To properly provide care, health professionals must find meaning in the work, made possible by the modification of the their internal mindset via experience, which generates transformation, new meaning, and knowledge from praxis.

El acto de atender diariamente a personas con dolor, dificultad para respirar y muerte inminente puede potenciar situaciones difíciles para los profesionales del área. Sin embargo, casi nunca se discuten en los servicios y en el proceso de formación profesional. El objetivo fue analizar situaciones difíciles y sentimientos que emergen del cuidado de la salud. Investigación de perspectiva fenomenológica y cualitativa, basada en 30 situaciones difíciles de profesionales de la salud que actúan exclusivamente en el cuidado paliativo oncológico. Las entrevistas se realizaron entre agosto y febrero de 2020. Los resultados enseñan que las principales dificultades se motivaron por la identificación (cuando el profesional ve similitud con el paciente que atiende), mala muerte (con sufrimiento), cuando el paciente era joven, muerte de una madre con hijo pequeño y cuando hubo discrepancia entre lo propuesto por el profesional y el rechazo del paciente. Se observó una relación entre tipos de situaciones difíciles y categoría profesional. Los profesionales expresaron tanto sentimientos desagradables (tristeza, impotencia, angustia, miedo) como agradables (compasión, gratitud). Los resultados indican que ocultar el proceso de morir a lo largo del desarrollo de la civilización lo convirtió en un tabú e, incluso, es angustiante para las personas que trabajan con cuidados paliativos. También contribuye a mostrar una importante dimensión subjetiva del cuidado, generalmente ignorada, que genera sufrimiento, pero también resignificación. Para que cumpla con su propósito es necesario encontrar sentido en el trabajo, posibilitado por la modificación del estado interno del profesional a través de la experiencia, generando transformación y un nuevo significado y conocimiento a partir de la praxis.

Effectiveness of palbociclib with aromatase inhibitors for the treatment of advanced breast cancer in an exposure retrospective cohort study: implications for clinical practice.

BACKGROUND: New drugs for locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer have led to clinical benefits, aside with increasing costs to healthcare systems. The current financing model for health technology assessment (HTA) privileges real-world data. As part of the ongoing HTA, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of palbociclib with aromatase inhibitors (AI) and compare it with the efficacy reported in PALOMA-2. METHODS: A population-based retrospective exposure cohort study was conducted including all patients initiating treatment in Portugal with palbociclib under early access use and registered in the National Oncology Registry. The primary outcome was progression free survival (PFS). Secondary outcomes considered included time to palbociclib failure (TPF), overall survival (OS), time to next treatment (TTNT), and proportion of patients discontinuing treatment due to  adverse events (AEs). The Kaplan-Meier method was used and median, 1- and 2-year survival rates were computed, with two-sided 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines for reporting observational studies were used. RESULTS: There were 131 patients included. Median follow-up was 28.3 months (IQR: 22.7-35.2) and median duration of treatment was 17.5 months (IQR: 7.8-29.1). Median PFS was 19.5 months (95%CI 14.2-24.2), corresponding to a 1-year PFS rate of 67.9% (95%CI 59.2-75.2) and a 2-year PFS rate of 42.0% (95%CI 33.5-50.3). Sensitivity analysis showed median PFS would increase slightly when excluding those not initiating treatment with the recommended dose, raising to 19.8 months (95%CI 14.4-28.9). By considering only patients meeting PALOMA-2 criteria, we could observe a major difference in treatment outcomes, with a mean PFS of 28.8 months (95%CI 19.4-36.0). TPF was 19.8 months (95%CI 14.2-24.9). Median OS was not reached. Median TTNT was 22.5 months (95%CI 18.0-29.8). A total of 14 patients discontinued palbociclib because of AEs (10.7%). CONCLUSIONS: Data suggest palbociclib with AI to have an effectiveness of 28.8 months, when used in patients with overlapping characteristics to those used in PALOMA-2. However, when used outside of these eligibility criteria, namely in patients with less favorable prognosis (e.g., presence of visceral disease), the benefits are inferior, even though still favorable.

A vida cotidiana do neoliberalismo: os cuidados de saúde à população em situação de rua no Rio de Janeiro / The everyday life of neoliberalism: The provision of health care for unhoused people in Rio de Janeiro

Resumo O crescimento do neoliberalismo nas políticas sociais brasileiras vem resultando em retrocessos nos indicadores sociais, nas condições de trabalho e no desempenho dos serviços de saúde. Não obstante, sabe-se pouco sobre como o neoliberalismo age nas práticas concretas e relações de cuidado. Este artigo visa contribuir para a análise dos impactos da neoliberalização da saúde no Brasil, com foco na capilarização do neoliberalismo no cotidiano do cuidado, bem como pensar formas de resistência ao neoliberalismo na saúde. Partimos da crítica marxista e feminista da vida cotidiana, que considera a interdependência entre o global e o local nas políticas e práticas de saúde. Utilizamos resultados de pesquisa qualitativa sobre o cuidado de saúde à população em situação de rua no Rio de Janeiro, como forma de ilustrar o impacto do neoliberalismo no cotidiano dos serviços de saúde e suas consequências nas percepções de profissionais de saúde e usuários. Observamos que atitudes individuais e coletivas dos profissionais de saúde evidenciam formas de resistência à racionalidade neoliberal hegemônica. A lente da vida cotidiana permite observar tanto a reprodução do global neoliberal, quanto atitudes que potenciam transformações e revelam a persistência de um cuidado empático enquanto um ato de resistência ao neoliberalismo.

Abstract The growth of neoliberalism in Brazilian social policies has resulted in setbacks in social indicators, in working conditions and performance of health services. Nonetheless, little is known about how neoliberalism acts in concrete practices and care relationships. This article aims to contribute to the analysis of the impacts of neoliberalization of health in Brazil, focusing on the capillarization of neoliberalism in daily care., and to reflect about forms of resistance to neoliberalism in health. We draw on the Marxist and feminist critique of everyday life, which considers the interdependence between the global and the local in health policies and practices. We consider results of a qualitative research on health care for the unhoused population in Rio de Janeiro, as a way of illustrating the impact of neoliberalism in the daily life of health services and its consequences on the perceptions of health professionals and users. We observed that individual and collective attitudes of health professionals show forms of resistance to hegemonic neoliberal rationality. The lens of everyday life allows us to observe both the reproduction of neoliberal global dynamics, as well as attitudes that can enable transformations and the persistence of an empathic approach to care as an act of resistance to neoliberalism.

Impacto da epidemia de COVID-19 na mortalidade em prisões / Impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on mortality in prisons

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o impacto da COVID-19 na mortalidade das pessoas privadas de liberdade (PPL) no estado do Rio de Janeiro e comparar as taxas observadas com as da população geral. Estudo quantitativo, retrospectivo, que associa análise de série histórica 2016-2021 de taxa anual de mortalidade, seccional, comparando 2016-2017 vs. 2020-2021 e análise de dados individuais obtidos a partir de fontes primárias e secundárias de informação. A razão de mortalidade padronizada entre PPL e população geral foi estimada para os grupos de causa. Série histórica mostrou queda anual (13%) da mortalidade de 2016 a 2019, tendência que se inverteu em 2020 devido à COVID-19, responsável por 20% do total de mortes. Das PPL que morreram por COVID-19, 54,8% eram idosas e/ou portadoras de comorbidade. A mortalidade por COVID-19 foi semelhante entre a PPL e a população geral, mas a mortalidade por tuberculose e HIV permaneceu muito mais elevada entre as PPL. A pandemia foi provavelmente determinante para a reversão da tendência de queda na mortalidade observada entre 2016 e 2019. A utilização da mortalidade como indicador de saúde e direitos humanos nas prisões por órgãos de saúde, justiça e organizações da sociedade civil implica o aprimoramento da informação sobre PPL no SIM.

Abstract Purpose: to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the mortality of people deprived of their liberty (PDL) in the state of Rio de Janeiro and compare the rates observed with those of the general population. Method: quantitative, retrospective study combining the analysis of the 2016-2021 time series of annual mortality rates, cross-sectional study comparing 2016-2017 vs. 2020-2021 and analysis of individual data obtained from primary and secondary sources of information. The standardized mortality ratio between PDL and the general population was estimated for the cause of death categories. Results: historical series showed an annual drop (13%) in mortality from 2016 to 2019, a trend that was inverted in 2020 due to COVID-19, which was responsible for 20% of all deaths. Of the COVID-19 deaths, 54.8% were elderly and/or had co-morbidities. Mortality from COVID-19 was similar between PDL and the general population, but mortality from tuberculosis and HIV remained much higher among PDL. Conclusion: the pandemic was probably a determinant of the downward trend reversal in mortality between 2016 and 2019. Using mortality as an indicator of health and human rights in prisons by health, justice and civil society organizations implies the improvement of information about PDL in the SIM.

O que representa o diagnóstico de HIV/Aids após quatro décadas de epidemia? / What does the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS represent after four decades of epidemic?

RESUMO O HIV/Aids foi descoberto há 41 anos, e avanços importantes foram conquistados para pessoas vivendo com HIV/Aids. Mas esses fatos foram suficientes para mudar a representação diagnóstica e superar o medo de sofrer preconceitos? Objetivou-se analisar as representações do diagnóstico de HIV/Aids após quatro décadas de epidemia. Realizou-se pesquisa exploratória, qualitativa, em instituição especializada em HIV/Aids localizada no Rio de Janeiro. Foram entrevistados 14 pacientes maiores de 18 anos, de ambos os sexos, independentemente de tempo de diagnóstico. Realizou-se análise fenomenológica. As representações evocavam pessimismo relacionado aos estigmas (contaminação, aparência de 'aidético', morte iminente); otimismo (diagnóstico como renascimento, parecer saudável, diagnóstico de HIV, não Aids, pertencimento ao grupo de homossexuais com HIV); ou indução pelos profissionais (HIV como doença crônica). Também se percebeu hierarquia de preconceitos entre quem utiliza antirretrovirais para evitar o HIV contra quem vive com HIV, e destes últimos contra quem vive com Aids. Apesar dos avanços, evidenciou-se que os estigmas do início da epidemia ainda estão presentes, gerando vergonha e medo. As representações otimistas relacionam-se com a ressignificação desses estigmas por não terem se concretizado na realidade. Contudo, reconhece-se a importância do enfrentamento dos estigmas do HIV/Aids, sendo o cuidado em saúde importante lócus de ressignificação.

ABSTRACT HIV/AIDS was discovered 41 years ago and important advances have been made for people living with HIV/AIDS. But were these facts enough to change diagnostic representation and overcome fear of suffering prejudice? The objective was to analyze the representations of HIV/AIDS diagnosis after four decades of epidemic. Exploratory, qualitative research was carried out in an institution specializing in HIV/ AIDS located in Rio de Janeiro. Fourteen patients over 18 years, both genders, were interviewed, regardless time of diagnosis. Phenomenological analysis was performed. The representations evoked pessimism related to stigmas (contamination, appearance of 'aidetic', imminent death); optimism (diagnosis as rebirth, looking healthy, diagnosis of HIV, not AIDS, belonging the group of homosexuals with HIV); or induction by professionals (HIV as a chronic disease). A hierarchy of prejudices was perceived between those who use antiretrovirals to avoid HIV against those who live with HIV and, the latter, against those who live with AIDS. Despite the advances, it was evident the stigmas from the beginning the epidemic are present, generating shame and fear. Optimistic representations are related to resignification of stigmas for not having materialized in reality. However, the importance of confronting stigmas is recognized, with health care being an important locus of resignification.

Real-world effectiveness of palbociclib plus fulvestrant in advanced breast cancer: Results from a population-based cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Real-world (RW) data may provide valuable information on the effectiveness and safety of medicines, which is particularly relevant for clinicians, patients and third-party payers. Evidence on the effectiveness of palbociclib plus fulvestrant is scarce, which highlights the need of additional studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of palbociclib plus fulvestrant in advanced breast cancer (ABC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study and cases of interest were identified through the Portuguese National Cancer Registry database and additional data sources. Patients aged≥18 years, diagnosed with ABC and exposed to palbociclib plus fulvestrant between May 31, 2017 and March 31, 2019 were included. Patients were followed-up until death or cut-off date (February 28, 2021). Primary outcome was rw-progression-free survival (rwPFS). Secondary outcomes were rw-overall survival (rwOS), rw-time to palbociclib failure (rwTPF) and rw-time to next treatment (rwTTNT). RESULTS: A total of 210 patients were included. Median age was 58 years (range 29-83) and 99.05% were female. Median follow-up time was 23.22 months and, at cut-off date, treatment had been discontinued in 189 patients, mainly due to disease progression (n = 152). Median rwPFS was 7.43 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.28-9.05) and 2-year rwPFS was 16.65% (95%CI 11.97-22.00). Median rwOS was 24.70 months (95%CI 21.58-29.27), median rwTPF was 7.5 months (95%CI 6.51-9.08) and median rwTTNT was 11.74 months (95%CI 10.33-14.08). CONCLUSION: Palbociclib plus fulvestrant seems an effective treatment for ABC in real-world context. Compared to registrations studies, rwPFS and rwOS were shorter in real-life setting.

População em situação de rua: estigmas, preconceitos e estratégias de cuidado em saúde / Unhoused people: stigma, prejudice, and health care strategies

Resumo Representações sociais históricas sobre estigma e preconceito relacionado à População em Situação de Rua (PSR) provocam sofrimento psíquico, sentimento de vergonha, afastamento das relações familiares e sociais. Esse artigo objetivou entender como a PSR e os profissionais de saúde percebem, reproduzem, elaboram e lidam as representações produzidas por suas condições sociais. Pesquisa qualitativa, que envolve Observação Participante; Entrevistas com 24 PSR e Grupo Focal com profissionais dos serviços que prestam cuidado à PSR. O estudo foi realizado no município do Rio de Janeiro em local onde o uso do crack tem prevalência importante. Análise foi realizada pelo método da narrativa fenomenológica. O estereótipo provoca uma autoimagem de pessoa indigna, indesejada, que justifica discriminações cotidianas e, sobretudo, a perda da condição mais importante de todos os seres: sua condição humana, além de legitimar desassistência e violência contra elas. Aprofundar as relações entre preconceitos e discriminações em contexto de população vulnerável e serviços de saúde, pode auxiliar projetos terapêuticos que promovam diminuição do sofrimento psíquico, melhor assistência e reconhecimento social de cidadania da PSR.

Abstract Historical, social representations about stigma and prejudice related to unhoused people cause psychological distress, feeling of shame, and withdrawal from family and social relationships. This paper aimed to understand how unhoused people and health professionals perceive, reproduce, elaborate, and address the representations produced by their social conditions. This qualitative research employed participant observation, interviews with 24 unhoused people, and a focus group with professionals from the services providing care to the unhoused people. The study was conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where crack use is very prevalent. An analysis was performed using the phenomenological narrative method. Stereotyping conjures the self-image of an unworthy, unwanted person, which justifies daily discrimination and, above all, the loss of the most critical condition of all beings, namely, their human condition, besides legitimizing the lack of care and violence against them. Deepening the relationship between prejudice and discrimination in the context of vulnerable populations and health services can assist therapeutic projects that promote the reduction of psychological distress, better care, and social recognition of citizenship of the unhoused people.

Pharmacokinetics of oral levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol in women after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

BACKGROUND: Most patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are women in reproductive age. It is not known if bariatric surgery affects the pharmacokinetics of oral contraceptives. OBJECTIVES: The primary objective was to evaluate ethinylestradiol (EE) and levonorgestrel (LNG) absorption in women undergoing RYGB, compared with nonoperated controls matched by age and body mass index (BMI). A secondary objective was to assess whether the time since surgery and BMI in the postoperative period influenced the absorption parameters. SETTING: University hospital, Brazil. METHODS: This study was designed to compare the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), the time to the peak plasma level (Tmax), the area under the curve (AUC0-8 and AUC0-∞) after a single dose of a combined oral contraceptive with 0.03 mg EE and 0.15 mg LNG among 20 women after RYGB and 20 controls. Blood samples were obtained for 8 hours. RESULTS: The mean LNG AUC0-8 and LNG AUC0-∞ were higher in RYGB group (P = .048 and P = .004, respectively). We found a positive correlation for LNG AUC0-8 (P = .045) and AUC0-∞ (P = .004) and the time since surgery, and we found a negative correlation for LNG Cmax (P = .018), AUC0-8 (P = .003), and AUC0-∞ (P = .001) and BMI. CONCLUSION: No significant differences were found in oral EE pharmacokinetics. The operated group showed higher mean LNG AUC0-8 and AUC0-∞ but it was not considered clinically significant. The present study suggests that RYGB may not affect EE and LNG absorption.

The way of life of the unhoused people as an enhance for COVID-19 care / Modo de vida de población en situación de calle como potenciador del cuidado de COVID-19 / Modo de vida da população em situação de rua como potencializador do cuidado de COVID-19

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the way of life of the unhoused people to enhance health care in the pandemic. Methods: A qualitative, interdisciplinary research, with participant observation and 24 interviews with the unhoused people. Empirical categories and bibliographic search on this population and COVID-19 guided simple actions aimed at care. Results: The group at greatest risk for COVID-19 use drugs compulsively; starves constantly; discontinues drug treatment for tuberculosis, HIV, and diabetes; has underdiagnosis of Depression; has difficulty sheltering and uses inhaled drugs. This way of life increases the risk of worsening COVID-19 and brings great challenges to health services. Several proposals to guide care considered these results and the new routine caused by the pandemic. Final considerations: The way of life of the studied population increased their vulnerability in the pandemic, as well as the perception of risk of disease transmission by the population in general.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar el modo de vida de la población en situación de calle (PSC) para potenciar el cuidado en salud en la pandemia. Métodos: Investigación cualitativa, interdisciplinaria, con observación participante, y 24 entrevistas con población en situación de calle. Categorías empíricas y búsqueda bibliográfica sobre dicha población y COVID-19 determinaron propuestas simples orientadas al cuidado. Resultados: El grupo más vulnerable a COVID-19 usa drogas compulsivamente, pasa hambre, interrumpe tratamiento médico para tuberculosis, VIH y diabetes; tiene subdiagnóstico de depresión, dificultad para hallar refugio y usa drogas inhalantes. Dicho modo de vida incrementa el riesgo de agravamiento del COVID-19, imponiendo mayores desafíos a los servicios de salud. Diversas propuestas de orientación del cuidado consideraron estos resultados y las nuevas rutinas impuestas por la pandemia. Consideraciones finales: El modo de vida de la población estudiada incrementó su vulnerabilidad en pandemia, así como la percepción de riesgo de transmisión de la enfermedad a la población en general.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o modo de vida da População em Situação de Rua para potencializar o cuidado em saúde na pandemia. Métodos: Pesquisa qualitativa, interdisciplinar, com observação participante e 24 entrevistas com população em situação de rua. Categorias empíricas e busca bibliográfica sobre essa população e COVID-19 pautaram proposições simples voltadas ao cuidado. Resultados: O grupo de maior risco para COVID-19 faz uso compulsivo de drogas; passa fome constantemente; interrompe tratamento medicamentoso para Tuberculose, HIV e Diabetes; tem subdiagnóstico de Depressão; tem dificuldade de abrigamento; usa drogas inalatórias. Esse modo de vida aumenta risco de agravamento da COVID-19 e impõe maiores desafios aos serviços de saúde. Diversas propostas para orientar o cuidado levaram em conta esses resultados e a nova rotina impressa pela pandemia. Considerações Finais: O modo de vida da população estudada ampliou sua vulnerabilidade na pandemia, bem como a percepção de risco de transmissão da doença pela população em geral.

Non-Muscle Myosin 2A (NM2A): Structure, Regulation and Function.

Non-muscle myosin 2A (NM2A) is a motor cytoskeletal enzyme with crucial importance from the early stages of development until adulthood. Due to its capacity to convert chemical energy into force, NM2A powers the contraction of the actomyosin cytoskeleton, required for proper cell division, adhesion and migration, among other cellular functions. Although NM2A has been extensively studied, new findings revealed that a lot remains to be discovered concerning its spatiotemporal regulation in the intracellular environment. In recent years, new functions were attributed to NM2A and its activity was associated to a plethora of illnesses, including neurological disorders and infectious diseases. Here, we provide a concise overview on the current knowledge regarding the structure, the function and the regulation of NM2A. In addition, we recapitulate NM2A-associated diseases and discuss its potential as a therapeutic target.

Health technology assessment in Brazil - an international perspective. / O processo de incorporação de tecnologias em saúde no Brasil em uma perspectiva internacional.

Given the financial impact of the adoption of new health technologies in health systems, choosing what technology should be introduced and when poses a major challenge for health managers. The health technology assessment (HTA) process should therefore be underpinned by transparent and objective criteria. The objective of this study was to analyze HTA processes in Brazil, overseen by the National Commission for the Incorporation of Health Technology (CONITEC), and to compare these processes with those in countries considered to be at the forefront of this field: Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The following categories were used for the comparative analysis: program structure, definition and selection of topics, evidence review, use of HTA in decision making, program products and dissemination, and transparency. The findings show that there are more similarities than differences between these countries' processes and the CONITEC processes. The main differences identified were: composition of committees, entitlement to appeal, program evaluation, and timeframes for the implementation of recommendations/decisions. Despite making major strides in recent years, Brazil should continue to promote continuous improvement of its HTA process.

Dado o impacto financeiro da incorporação de novas tecnologias em saúde, é um desafio para os gestores escolher qual delas deve ser incorporada e quando isto deve ocorrer. Assim, é necessário contar com um processo de avaliação e de incorporação de tecnologias baseado em critérios transparentes e objetivos. Neste trabalho objetivou-se analisar o processo nacional da Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias em Saúde do Ministério da Saúde (Conitec) e compará-lo com o de agências de países de referência: Austrália, Canadá e Reino Unido. Utilizaram-se as seguintes categorias para a comparação: estrutura, indicação e seleção de temas, condução da revisão de evidências, uso de Avaliação Tecnológica em Saúde (ATS) na tomada de decisão, produtos do programa de ATS, divulgação e transparência. O processo da Conitec legalmente previsto apresentou mais similaridades do que distinções em comparação com os das agências estudadas. As principais diferenças foram em relação a: composição dos comitês, apresentação de recursos, avaliação do programa, seleção e prazos para oferta da tecnologia incorporada. Apesar dos avanços, a incorporação de tecnologias em saúde no Brasil deve buscar a melhoria contínua.

O processo de incorporação de tecnologias em saúde no Brasil em uma perspectiva internacional / Health technology assessment in Brazil - an international perspective

Resumo Dado o impacto financeiro da incorporação de novas tecnologias em saúde, é um desafio para os gestores escolher qual delas deve ser incorporada e quando isto deve ocorrer. Assim, é necessário contar com um processo de avaliação e de incorporação de tecnologias baseado em critérios transparentes e objetivos. Neste trabalho objetivou-se analisar o processo nacional da Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias em Saúde do Ministério da Saúde (Conitec) e compará-lo com o de agências de países de referência: Austrália, Canadá e Reino Unido. Utilizaram-se as seguintes categorias para a comparação: estrutura, indicação e seleção de temas, condução da revisão de evidências, uso de Avaliação Tecnológica em Saúde (ATS) na tomada de decisão, produtos do programa de ATS, divulgação e transparência. O processo da Conitec legalmente previsto apresentou mais similaridades do que distinções em comparação com os das agências estudadas. As principais diferenças foram em relação a: composição dos comitês, apresentação de recursos, avaliação do programa, seleção e prazos para oferta da tecnologia incorporada. Apesar dos avanços, a incorporação de tecnologias em saúde no Brasil deve buscar a melhoria contínua.

Abstract Given the financial impact of the adoption of new health technologies in health systems, choosing what technology should be introduced and when poses a major challenge for health managers. The health technology assessment (HTA) process should therefore be underpinned by transparent and objective criteria. The objective of this study was to analyze HTA processes in Brazil, overseen by the National Commission for the Incorporation of Health Technology (CONITEC), and to compare these processes with those in countries considered to be at the forefront of this field: Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The following categories were used for the comparative analysis: program structure, definition and selection of topics, evidence review, use of HTA in decision making, program products and dissemination, and transparency. The findings show that there are more similarities than differences between these countries' processes and the CONITEC processes. The main differences identified were: composition of committees, entitlement to appeal, program evaluation, and timeframes for the implementation of recommendations/decisions. Despite making major strides in recent years, Brazil should continue to promote continuous improvement of its HTA process.

As múltiplas transferências e o manejo do setting nas consultas com pais no tratamento de crianças e adolescentes: uma contribuição / Multiple transferences and management of the setting in consultations with parents in child and adolescent treatment / Las múltiples transferencias y el manejo del setting en las consultas con padres en el tratamiento de niños y adolescentes / Les transferts multiples et la gestion du cadre dans les consultations avec des parents dans le traitement des enfants et des adolescents

As consultas com pais são de extrema importância para se obter um bom resultado no tratamento de crianças e adolescentes. Este artigo tem como objetivo discorrer sobre as questões técnicas implicadas nessas consultas, como as múltiplas transferências envolvidas entre pais, analista e paciente e o manejo do setting analítico. Para tanto, será apresentado um breve histórico da psicanálise de crianças, em que observamos posturas técnicas distintas de acordo com o referencial teórico utilizado. Em seguida, serão abordados conceitos da técnica psicanalítica, como transferência, contratransferência e manejo de setting. Vale ressaltar que este artigo tem como base a teoria do amadurecimento de Donald Winnicott, que descreve a importância do ambiente para a saúde mental da criança e do adolescente.

Consultations with parents are extremely important to obtain good results in the treatment of children and adolescents. This article aims to discuss the technical issues involved in these consultations, such as the multiple transferences between parents, analyst, and patient, and the management of the analytical setting. Therefore, a brief history of the psychoanalysis of children will be presented, in which we observe different technical postures according to the theoretical reference used. Then, concepts of the psychoanalytic technique will be approached, such as transference, countertransference and setting management. It is worth mentioning that this article is based on Donald Winnicott's theory of maturation, which describes the importance of the environment for the mental health of children and adolescents.

Las consultas con padres son de extrema importancia para obtener un buen resultado en el tratamiento de niños y adolescentes. Este artigo tiene como objetivo discurrir sobre las cuestiones técnicas implicadas en estas consultas, como las múltiples transferencias envolvidas entre padres, analista y paciente y el manejo del setting analítico. Para eso, será presentado un breve histórico de la psicoanálisis de niños, en que observamos posturas técnicas distintas de acuerdo con el referencial teórico utilizado. Después, serán abordados conceptos de la técnica psicoanalítica, como transferencia, contratransferencia y manejo de setting. Es importante resaltar que este artigo tiene como base la teoría de la maduración de Donald Winnicott, que describe la importancia del ambiente para la salud mental del niño y del adolescente.

Les consultations avec des parents sont d'extrême importance pour obtenir un bon résultat dans le traitement des enfants et adolescents. Cet article a pour objectif de discuter des questions techniques impliqués dans ces consultations, telles que les transferts multiples impliqués entre les parents, l'analyste et le patient et la gestion du setting psychanalytique. Pour ce faire, un bref historique de la psychanalyse des enfants sera présenté, où nous observons des positions techniques distinctes selon la référence théorique utilisée. Ensuite, nous aborderons des concepts de la techique psychanalytique comme le transfert, le contre-transfert et la gestion du setting. Il fait souligner que cet article a pour base la théorie de la maturation de Donald Winnicott, qui décrit l'importance de l'environnement pour la santé mentale de l'enfant et de l'adolescent.

The National Reproductive Health Programme in Cape Verde: scope, limits and challenges. / O Programa Nacional de Saúde Reprodutiva de Cabo Verde: alcances, limites e desafios.

Cape Verde is an archipelago on the African coast, with 538,535 inhabitants living on nine islands. Since it gained independence in 1975, the country has experienced rapid economic and social growth, with significant gains in education as well as a reduction in maternal and infant mortality deaths. In 2001, following the guidelines of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD, Cairo, 1994), the National Reproductive Health Program (PNSR) was launched aiming to provide sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to adolescents, young people and adult men, in partnership with the education sector and youth centers. However, the continuance of unplanned pregnancies, illegal abortions and HIV infections has indicated that there are gaps in the program`s implementation. Studies conducted in the country point to socio-cultural aspects as well as aspects covering organizations and the services on offer, as some of the reasons for the identified problems. This paper aims to reflect on the scope and limits of the PNSR in Cape Verde with consideration being given to the challenges of implementing health policies that affect cultural practices related to gender and sexuality. Consideration is also given to the specifics of Cape Verde`s demographics, economic and cultural aspects as well as the importance of the SRH services to its development.

Cabo Verde é um arquipélago do continente africano, com cerca de 538.535 habitantes. Desde sua independencia, em 1975, o país tem experimentado um rápido crescimento econômico e social, com ganhos significativos em escolarização, redução dos óbitos maternos e da mortalidade infantil. Em 2001, seguindo as diretrizes da Conferencia Internacional de População e Desenvolvimento (CIPD, Cairo, 1994), foi lançado o Programa Nacional de Saúde Reprodutiva, PNSR, visando incluir ações de saúde sexual e reprodutiva, SSR, para adolescentes, jovens e homens adultos, em parceria com o setor de educação e centros de juventude. Entretanto, a persistência da gravidez não planejada, do aborto clandestino e da infecção pelo HIV indicam lacunas na sua implementação. Estudos realizados no país apontam razões socioculturais e no âmbito da organização e oferta de serviços para os problemas identificados. Este trabalho tem como finalidade refletir sobre os alcance e limites do PNSR de Cabo Verde, considerando os desafios de implementação de políticas de saúde que afetam práticas culturais relativas ao gênero e a sexualidade; as especificidades demográficas, socioeconômicas e culturais de Cabo Verde e ainda a importancia da SSR para o desenvolvimento.

Exercise Improves Physical Activity and Comorbidities in Obese Adults with Asthma.

INTRODUCTION: Obese adults with asthma have an increased number of comorbidities and reduced daily life physical activity (DLPA), which may worsen asthma symptoms. Exercise is recommended to improve asthma outcomes; however, the benefits of exercise for psychosocial comorbidities and physical activity levels in obese adults with asthma have been poorly investigated. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the effects of exercise on DLPA, asthma symptoms, and psychosocial comorbidities in obese adults with asthma. METHODS: Fifty-five grade II obese adults with asthma were randomly assigned to either a weight loss program + exercise program (WL + E group, n = 28) or a weight loss program + sham (WL + S group, n = 27). The WL + E group incorporated aerobic and resistance muscle training into the weight loss program (nutrition and psychological therapies), whereas the WL + S group performed breathing and stretching exercises. DLPA, asthma symptoms, sleep quality, and anxiety and depression symptoms were quantified before and after treatment. RESULTS: After 3 months, the WL + E group presented a significant increase in daily step counts (3068 ± 2325 vs 729 ± 1118 steps per day) and the number of asthma symptom-free days (14.5 ± 9.6 vs 8.6 ± 11.4 d·month) compared with the WL + S group. The proportion of participants with improvements in depression symptoms (76.4% vs 16.6%) and a lower risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (56.5% vs 16.3%) was greater in the WL + E group than that in the WL + S group (P < 0.05). Significant improvements in sleep efficiency (6.6% ± 5.1% vs 1.3% ± 4.7%) and latency (-3.7 ± 5.9 vs 0.2 ± 5.6 min) were also observed in the WL + E group. CONCLUSIONS: Our results strongly suggest that exercise training plus a weight loss program improves DLPA, sleep efficiency, and depression and asthma symptoms in obese adults with asthma.

Immunogenetic predisposing factors for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis.

PURPOSE: Neuroinflammation appears as an important epileptogenic mechanism. Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated an upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1ß and TNF-α, in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE-HS). Expression of these cytokines can be modulated by polymorphisms such as rs16944 and rs1800629, respectively, both of which have been associated with febrile seizures (FS) and MTLE-HS development. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system has also been implicated in diverse epileptic entities, suggesting a variable role of this system in epilepsy. Our aim was to analyse the association between immunogenetic factors and MTLE-HS development. For that rs16944 (-511 T>C, IL-1ß), rs1800629 (-308 G>A, TNF-α) polymorphisms and HLA-DRB1 locus were genotyped in a Portuguese Population. METHODS: We studied 196 MTLE-HS patients (108 females, 88 males, 44.7 ± 12.0 years, age of onset = 13.6 ± 10.3 years, 104 with FS antecedents) and 282 healthy controls in a case-control study. RESULTS: The frequency of rs16944 TT genotype was higher in MTLE-HS patients compared to controls (14.9% in MTLE-HS vs. 7.7% in controls, p = 0.021, OR [95% CI] = 2.20 [1.13-4.30]). This association was independent of FS antecedents. No association was observed between rs1800629 genotypes or HLA-DRB1 alleles and MTLE-HS susceptibility. Also, no correlation was observed between the studied polymorphisms and disease age of onset. CONCLUSION: The rs16944 TT genotype is associated with MTLE-HS development what may be explained by the higher IL-1ß levels produced by this genotype. High IL-1ß levels may have neurotoxic effects or imbalance neurotransmission leading to seizures.

O Programa Nacional de Saúde Reprodutiva de Cabo Verde: alcances, limites e desafios / The National Reproductive Health Programme in Cape Verde: scope, limits and challenges

Resumo Cabo Verde é um arquipélago do continente africano, com cerca de 538.535 habitantes. Desde sua independencia, em 1975, o país tem experimentado um rápido crescimento econômico e social, com ganhos significativos em escolarização, redução dos óbitos maternos e da mortalidade infantil. Em 2001, seguindo as diretrizes da Conferencia Internacional de População e Desenvolvimento (CIPD, Cairo, 1994), foi lançado o Programa Nacional de Saúde Reprodutiva, PNSR, visando incluir ações de saúde sexual e reprodutiva, SSR, para adolescentes, jovens e homens adultos, em parceria com o setor de educação e centros de juventude. Entretanto, a persistência da gravidez não planejada, do aborto clandestino e da infecção pelo HIV indicam lacunas na sua implementação. Estudos realizados no país apontam razões socioculturais e no âmbito da organização e oferta de serviços para os problemas identificados. Este trabalho tem como finalidade refletir sobre os alcance e limites do PNSR de Cabo Verde, considerando os desafios de implementação de políticas de saúde que afetam práticas culturais relativas ao gênero e a sexualidade; as especificidades demográficas, socioeconômicas e culturais de Cabo Verde e ainda a importancia da SSR para o desenvolvimento.

Abstract Cape Verde is an archipelago on the African coast, with 538,535 inhabitants living on nine islands. Since it gained independence in 1975, the country has experienced rapid economic and social growth, with significant gains in education as well as a reduction in maternal and infant mortality deaths. In 2001, following the guidelines of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD, Cairo, 1994), the National Reproductive Health Program (PNSR) was launched aiming to provide sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to adolescents, young people and adult men, in partnership with the education sector and youth centers. However, the continuance of unplanned pregnancies, illegal abortions and HIV infections has indicated that there are gaps in the program`s implementation. Studies conducted in the country point to socio-cultural aspects as well as aspects covering organizations and the services on offer, as some of the reasons for the identified problems. This paper aims to reflect on the scope and limits of the PNSR in Cape Verde with consideration being given to the challenges of implementing health policies that affect cultural practices related to gender and sexuality. Consideration is also given to the specifics of Cape Verde`s demographics, economic and cultural aspects as well as the importance of the SRH services to its development.

Health care factors associated with survival among women with breast cancer on hormone therapy in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2004 - 2010.

Objectives To better understand the role that health care plays in breast cancer survival by investigating the effects that hormone therapy adherence and other select health care variables, adjusted for clinical and sociodemographic factors, had among a population of women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods This was a longitudinal study based on secondary data of 5 861 women treated with hormone therapy (tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors) at the National Cancer Institute of Brazil (INCA), from 1 January 2004 - 29 October 2010. Four different sources of data were integrated for analysis: INCA Pharmacy Sector Dispensation System; Hospital-based Cancer Registry; Integrated Hospital System and INCA Absolute System; and Mortality Information System. Analyses explored the effects of adherence to hormone therapy, disease care aspects, and sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical variables, on the time of survival, using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models. Results The general survival rate was 94% in the first year after initiation of hormone therapy, and 71% in the fifth year. The Cox model indicated a higher hazard of death among women smokers, with more hospitalizations, more exams, and, among those who used, who used only aromatase inhibitors, as hormone therapy modality. The hazard was lower among women with a partner (stable relationship), a high school or college education a family history of cancer, and those who were treated by a mastologist, oncologist, and/or psychotherapist, who underwent surgery, and who adhered to hormone therapy. Conclusions The study indicated more vulnerable sub-groups and the aspects of care that provide best results, bringing new knowledge to improve assistance to this group of women.