Modelling the Impact of NETosis During the Initial Stage of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

The development of autoimmune diseases often takes years before clinical symptoms become detectable. We propose a mathematical model for the immune response during the initial stage of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus which models the process of aberrant apoptosis and activation of macrophages and neutrophils. NETosis is a type of cell death characterised by the release of neutrophil extracellular traps, or NETs, containing material from the neutrophil's nucleus, in response to a pathogenic stimulus. This process is hypothesised to contribute to the development of autoimmunogenicity in SLE. The aim of this work is to study how NETosis contributes to the establishment of persistent autoantigen production by analysing the steady states and the asymptotic dynamics of the model by numerical experiment.

From Plants to Psycho-Neurology: Unravelling the Therapeutic Benefits of Bioactive Compounds in Brain Disorders.

The brain's sensitivity to oxidative stress and neuronal cell death requires effective pharmacotherapy approaches. Current pharmacological therapies are frequently ineffective and display negative side effects. Bioactive chemicals found in plants may provide a potential alternative due to their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties and can be used in therapy and the management of a variety of neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative illnesses. Several natural products, including vitamin C, Cammelia sinensis polyphenols, Hypericum perforatum, and Crocus sativus have shown promise in lowering oxidative stress and treating symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). Similarly, bioactive compounds such as curcumin, luteolin, resveratrol, quercetin, and plants like Acorus gramineus, Rhodiola rosea, and Ginkgo biloba are associated with neuroprotective effects and symptom improvement in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, in neurodegenerative diseases, natural compounds from Rhodiola rosea, Morinda lucida, and Glutinous rehmannia provide neurological improvement. Further study in clinical samples is required to thoroughly investigate the therapeutic advantages of these bioactive substances for persons suffering from these illnesses.

MicroRNA Biomarkers as Promising Tools for Early Colorectal Cancer Screening-A Comprehensive Review.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent cancer worldwide. Early detection of this neoplasia has proven to improve prognosis, resulting in a 90% increase in survival. However, available CRC screening methods have limitations, requiring the development of new tools. MicroRNA biomarkers have emerged as a powerful screening tool, as they are highly expressed in CRC patients and easily detectable in several biological samples. While microRNAs are extensively studied in blood samples, recent interest has now arisen in other samples, such as stool samples, where they can be combined with existing screening methods. Among the microRNAs described in the literature, microRNA-21-5p and microRNA-92a-3p and their cluster have demonstrated high potential for early CRC screening. Furthermore, the combination of multiple microRNAs has shown improved performance in CRC detection compared to individual microRNAs. This review aims to assess the available data in the literature on microRNAs as promising biomarkers for early CRC screening, explore their advantages and disadvantages, and discuss the optimal study characteristics for analyzing these biomarkers.

The Impact of BDNF, NTRK2, NGFR, CREB1, GSK3B, AKT, MAPK1, MTOR, PTEN, ARC, and SYN1 Genetic Polymorphisms in Antidepressant Treatment Response Phenotypes.

This study aimed to investigate the influence of genetic variants in neuroplasticity-related genes on antidepressant treatment phenotypes. The BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway, as well as the downstream kinases Akt and ERK and the mTOR pathway, have been implicated in depression and neuroplasticity. However, clinicians still struggle with the unpredictability of antidepressant responses in depressed patients. We genotyped 26 polymorphisms in BDNF, NTRK2, NGFR, CREB1, GSK3B, AKT, MAPK1, MTOR, PTEN, ARC, and SYN1 in 80 patients with major depressive disorder treated according to the Texas Medical Algorithm for 27 months at Hospital Magalhães Lemos, Porto, Portugal. Our results showed that BDNF rs6265, PTEN rs12569998, and SYN1 rs1142636 SNP were associated with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Additionally, MAPK1 rs6928 and GSK3B rs6438552 gene polymorphisms were associated with relapse. Moreover, we found a link between the rs6928 MAPK1 polymorphism and time to relapse. These findings suggest that the BDNF, PTEN, and SYN1 genes may play a role in the development of TRD, while MAPK1 and GSK3B may be associated with relapse. GO analysis revealed enrichment in synaptic and trans-synaptic transmission pathways and glutamate receptor activity with TRD-associated genes. Genetic variants in these genes could potentially be incorporated into predictive models of antidepressant response.

Molecular characterization of Blastocystis subtypes isolated in the city of Uberaba, Minas Gerais State, Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION Blastocystis is an intestinal protozoan that may play a role in the pathogenicity of humans. This study aimed to (i) genetically characterize Blastocystis isolates obtained from human fecal samples and the water supply of the city of Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and (ii) to verify the phylogenetic relationship between these isolates. METHODS Blastocystis species present in 26 fecal samples obtained from humans and animals from Uberaba were genetically characterized by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism and polymerase chain reaction-sequence-tagged sites. All amplicons were partially sequenced and/or defined according to the GenBank classification. RESULTS Polymerase chain reaction amplicons were generated from 21 human isolates and 18 water samples. The subtypes defined were ST1 (53.3%), ST3 (40.0%), and ST2 (6.7%) for human isolates; ST10 (100%) for bovine isolates; and ST5 (50.0%), ST1 (25%), and ST3 (25%) for pigs. Sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products showed a 98%-99% identity for the Blastocystis sequences deposited in GenBank, except for sequences from water samples that showed the identity of algae sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of Blastocystis sequences showed two distinct groups, one of which was principally formed by ST1, ST5, and ST10, and the other by isolates characterized as ST3 and ST7. Both clades showed human and animal sequences, reinforcing the notion that Blastocystis subtypes are not host-specific. CONCLUSIONS The data showed that Blastocystis subtypes circulating in Uberaba are ST1-ST3, ST5, and ST10, present in both humans and animals, demonstrating that the Blastocystis subtypes are not host-specific; that is, zoonotic transmission is possible.

Congenital Heart Disease Revealing Familial 22q11 Deletion Syndrome

Abstract Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defects and the leading cause of mortality in the first year of life. It is well known that the 22q11 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is the most common microdeletion syndrome in humans and that congenial heart diseases (CHDs) are one of the most common phenotypic manifestations. However, it should be noted that the 22q11 deletion was also found in a significant number of patients with isolated CHD. The 22q11DS phenotype may include cardiovascular anomalies, palatal abnormalities, nasal voice, immune deficiency, endocrine dysfunctions, a varying degree of cognitive deficits and intellectual disabilities, velopharyngeal insufficiency, and characteristic craniofacial dysmorphism. This condition affects about 1 in 4,000 live births, making 22q11DS the most common microdeletion syndrome in humans. Here we describe the cases of three children who were referred to the clinical hospital center with the diagnosis of CHD, but with no direct signs of 22q11DS. Investigation of familial data led us to suspect that the mothers could be carriers of 22q11DS. The multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) testing confirmed that the patients and mothers exhibited 3 Mb 22q11 deletions, which justified the clinical signs in the mothers and the CHD in children. In the presence of a few characteristics that are common of a spectrum of some known syndromes, a familial examination can provide clues to a definitive diagnosis, as well as to the prevention of diseases and genetic counseling of these patients.

Evaluation of Different Oocyst DNA Extraction Methods for Cryptosporidium spp. Research in Environmental Samples.

PURPOSE: The major problem of the PCR method for the search of protozoan cysts/oocysts in environmental samples is the presence of inhibitors. DNA extraction methods capable of removing inhibitory substances of environmental origin and recovering the DNA are decisive for the efficiency of PCR. This study aimed to compare the efficiency of different DNA extraction methods for the search by Cryptosporidium oocysts in water samples by molecular methods. METHODS: DNA extraction from water samples was performed using four different methods. Two methods use a chaotropic buffer to extract DNA and promote the selective binding of DNA to a silica membrane (GuSCN-silica and GFX Kit). The other method is based on the lysis and digestion of the samples in buffer and proteinase K, adsorption of impurities by an "InhibitEX" insertion matrix and purification of the DNA by a silica column (QIAamp Kit). The fourth method uses ionic and non-ionic detergents and proteinase K, to solubilize and separate the DNA from proteins, and a paramagnetic resin for DNA purification in the presence of high concentrations of guanidine ions (MAGNEX DNA Kit). Nested-PCR was performed, and the Cryptosporidium SSU rDNA gene amplified. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that MAGNEX and GFX commercial kits showed higher sensitivity, with detection of up to 100 oocysts/mL and 104 oocysts/mL respectively. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study confirmed that for low-DNA environmental samples, extraction methods should include an efficient oocyst wall breaking step, and showed that the best Cryptosporidium DNA extraction methods are those that use paramagnetic resins.

Topical application of phenolic compounds suppresses Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammatory responses in mice with ear edema.

Acne vulgaris (AV), a severe chronic inflammatory dermatosis, commonly treated with systemic or topical antibiotics that exacerbate bacterial resistance and pose adverse side effects, new approaches for suppressing or reducing Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammatory responses and thereby treating AV remain necessary. In response, the goal of our study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of phenolic compounds in the in vivo inflammatory process induced by P. acnes. Mice were intradermally challenged with a suspension containing 1.0 × 107 CFU/mL of P. acnes per ear, after which groups of mice were variously treated with 20 µg of resveratrol, quercetin, gallic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. Mice ears were measured (mm) before each inducement and treatment. At the end of the experiment, activity catalase and superoxide dismutase, levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor alpha, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and glutathione were evaluated. Mice treated with resveratrol, quercetin, or gallic acid produced a 40%, 40%, and 30% reduction of the edema, respectively, while mice treated with resveratrol or gallic acid produced a 50 and 45% reduction in IL-1ß, also respectively, and a 35% reduction in MPO. Compared to mice in the control group (210 ± 21 µmol/mg protein) and ones treated with benzoyl peroxide (339.7 ± 21.3 µmol/mg protein), mice treated with resveratrol, quercetin, or gallic acid showed low levels of TBARS (71 ± 12 µmol/mg, 62 ± 10 µmol/mg, and 104 ± 15 µmol/mg protein, respectively). Such results suggest that phenolic compounds are a good alternative for the development of cosmetics that can be used to treat AV. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Occurrence of Blastocystis spp. in domestic animals in Triângulo Mineiro area of Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Currently, there are few studies regarding Blastocystis epidemiology. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Blastocystis in animals in Uberaba, Brazil. METHODS: Fecal samples were examined by parasitological methods and screened for Blastocystis by polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Blastocystis spp. were observed in pigs, sheep, cattle, and dogs. Blastocystis polymerase chain reaction was positive in 14/22 samples positive by parasitological methods. CONCLUSIONS: The occurrence of Blastocystis in animals is high, with a predominance of subtype 1 in the region. This is the first study conducted in Brazil showing the genetic profile of Blastocystis isolated from animals.

A importância da cooperação sul-sul em saúde no processo de implantação da Rede Latino-americana de Banco de Leite Humano / The importance of health cooperation in the implementation process of the Latin American Human Milk Bank Network / La importancia de la cooperación en salud en el proceso de implantación de la RedLatinoamericana de Banco de Leche Humana

Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a importância do modelo de cooperação sul-sul para a implantação da Rede Latino-americana de Banco de Leite Humano e as ações desempenhadas pelo Brasil neste processo de implantação. Metodologia: Tratou-se de uma pesquisa com a utilização da análise bibliográfica e documental, para a compreensão da cooperação estruturante. Sendo realizada a busca nas bases de dados do SciELO, e LILACS, e no site da Rede Global de Banco de Leite da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Foram selecionados 10 artigos e cinco documentos oficiais. Resultados: Percebe-se que a trajetória de cooperação entre os países teve sua construção marcada por eventos e acordos, que permitiram a estruturação da Rede Global de Leite Humano, maior articuladora para o sucesso da política pública em amamentação no Brasil, enfrentando da mortalidade infantil, e afirmando o protagonismo feminino que movimenta todas as ações que cooperam para a redução da mortalidade infantil. Conclusão: A estratégia mantém um perfil solidário entre os países pactuados, pois o objetivo de redução da mortalidade é enfrentado como experiência exitosa

Objective: This study aims to analyze the importance of the South-South cooperation model for the implementation of the Latin American Network of Human Milk Bank and the actions carried out by Brazil in this implementation process. Methodology: It is a research with the use of bibliographical and documentary analysis, for the understanding of structuring cooperation. The search was carried out in the databases of Scielo, and LILACS, and in the website of the Global Network of Milk Bank of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation. We selected 10 articles and five official documents. Results: It is noticed that the cooperation path between the countries was built by events and agreements, which allowed the structuring of the Global Network of Human Milk, the main articulator for the success of the public policy on breastfeeding in Brazil, facing infant mortality, and affirming the female protagonism that moves all actions that cooperate to reduce infant mortality. Conclusion: The strategy maintains a solidarity profile between the agreedments countries, because the objective of mortality decrease is confronting as a successful experience

Objetivo: Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la importancia del modelo de cooperación sur-sur para la implantación de la Red Latinoamericana de Banco de Leche Humana y las acciones desempeñadas por Brasil en este proceso de implantación. Metodología: Se trata de una investigación con la utilización del análisis bibliográfico y documental, para la comprensión de la cooperación estructurante. Se realizó la búsqueda en las bases de datos de Scielo, y LILACS, y en el sitio de la Red Global de Banco de Leche de la Fundación Oswaldo Cruz. Se seleccionaron 10 artículos y cinco documentos oficiales. Resultados: Se percibe que la trayectoria de cooperación entre los países tuvo su construcción marcada por eventos y acuerdos, que permitieron la estructuración de la Red Global de Leche Humana, mayor articuladora para el éxito de la política pública en lactancia en Brasil, enfrentándose a la mortalidad infantil, y afirmando el protagonismo femenino que mueve todas las acciones que cooperan para la reducción de la mortalidad infantil. Conclusión: La estrategia mantiene un solidario perfil entre los países pactados, porque el objetivo de reducir la mortalidad se enfrentado como una experiencia exitosa.

Análise do uso de um sistema informatizado por gestores hospitalares / Análisis del uso de un sistema informatizado por parte de gestores hospitalarios / Analysing the use of a computerized system by hospital managers

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar o uso de um sistema informatizado pelos gestores hospitalares, avaliando a satisfação quanto à utilidade e facilidade de uso do sistema. Métodos: Estudo de caso, com delineamento não experimental, realizado em um hospital geral. Utilizou-se um instrumento baseado no modelo de aceitação tecnológica. A população foi composta por 63 gestores, de acordo com os critérios de inclusão, 60 gestores compuseram a amostra do estudo. Resultados: No total, 90,5% dos gestores concordaram com a utilidade do sistema, enquanto 84,7% concordaram com a facilidade de uso. As variáveis externas analisadas (idade, facilidade com a tecnologia, oferta de treinamentos e apoio técnico, computadores disponíveis e gostar de utilizar), influenciaram a satisfação da facilidade de uso. A idade e oferta de treinamentos, não influenciaram a satisfação quanto a utilidade do sistema. Conclusão: Os gestores demonstraram maior satisfação com a utilidade do sistema quando comparada com a facilidade de uso, devido às características do sistema e da instituição.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar el uso de un sistema informatizado por parte de gestores hospitalarios, evaluando la satisfacción respecto de utilidad y facilidad de uso del sistema. Métodos: Estudio de caso, delineamiento no experimental, realizado en hospital general. Se aplicó un instrumento basado en el modelo de aceptación tecnológica. La población incluyó 63 gestores; conforme los criterios de inclusión, 60 gestores integraron la muestra. Resultados: En total, 90,5% de los gestores coincidieron en la utilidad del sistema, y 84,7% coincidieron en su facilidad de utilización. Las variables externas analizadas (edad, facilidad con la tecnología, oferta de capacitación y apoyo técnico, computadores disponibles y gusto por utilizarlos) influyeron en la satisfacción de facilidad de uso. Edad y oferta de capacitación no influyeron la satisfacción respecto a utilidad del sistema. Conclusión: Los gestores demuestran mayor satisfacción con utilidad del sistema respecto de facilidad de uso, debido a las características del sistema de la institución.

Abstract Objective: To analyze the use of a computerized system by hospital managers, evaluating their satisfaction related to the usefulness and ease of use of system. Methods: Case study, with a non-ex perimental design, conducted in a general hospital. The instrument used was based on the technological acceptance model. The population was composed of 63 managers and, based on the inclusion criteria, 60 managers were included in the study sample. Results: The system was considered useful by 90.5% of managers, while 84.7% agreed on its ease of use. The analyzed external variables (age, ease of using the technology, provision of training and technical support, computer availability, and favorability of use), showed an influence on satisfaction with the ease of use. The age and provided training did not influence satisfaction on the usefulness of the system. Conclusion: The managers showed greater satisfaction with the usefulness of the system when compared to the ease of use, due to the characteristics of the system and the institution.

A representação social da psicóloga gestora pública / La representación social de la psicóloga gestora pública / The social representation of female public management psychologists

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo foi identificar as representações sociais na profissão e atuação de psicólogas gestoras em políticas de proteção social em Brasília, a partir de pesquisa fundamentada na Teoria das Representações Sociais. Para a pesquisa foi utilizada a entrevista semiestruturada junto a nove psicólogas gestoras que atuam como coordenadoras de equipe multidisciplinar, nas áreas de saúde, assistência social e assistência sociojurídica. Por meio do Alceste, obtiveram-se quatro classes, divididas em dois blocos temáticos: (a) normas de convivência, que agrupou regras e relações interpessoais, e (b) gestão, que agrupou atendimento e complexidade. Os resultados apontam para uma representação social de integração entre serviço social e psicologia, na qual a gestora psicóloga precisa lidar, de um lado, com conflitos dentro da equipe, e de outro, precisa cumprir, mas ao mesmo tempo negociar, as normas com sua equipe. A Proteção Social aparece como campo da efetivação de direitos.

Resumen El propósito de esta investigación fue identificar las representaciones sociales de la profesión y el desempeño de las gerentes psicólogas en las políticas de protección social en Brasilia. La base teórica utilizada fue la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales. Los datos fueran colectados con la utilización de entrevistas semi-estructuradas con nueve psicólogas gerentes que actúan como coordinadoras del equipo multidisciplinario en las áreas de salud, asistencia social y asistencia jurídica. A través del Alceste, obtuvimos cuatro clases, divididas en dos bloques temáticos: (a) Niveles de Vida, que agrupa reglas y relaciones interpersonales, y (b) la Gestión , que agrupa atención y complejidad. Los resultados apuntan a una representación de la integración entre los servicios sociales y la psicología, en la que el gestor de psicólogo tiene que trabajar con el conflicto dentro del equipo, y por otro lado tienen que, al mismo tiempo, negociar las reglas con su equipo. El campo de la Protección Social aparece como la realización de los derechos.

Abstract The purpose of this article was to identify the social representations in the profession and performance of women managers psychologists in social protection policies in Brasilia grounded in the Theory of Social Representations. For the study we used a semi-structured interview with nine women psychologists' managers who act as coordinators of the multidisciplinary team in the areas of health, social care and social legal assistance. Through the Alceste, we obtained four classes, divided into two thematic blocks: (a) Standards of Living, which grouped rules and interpersonal relationships, and (b) Management that grouped service s and complexity. The results pointed to a representation of social integration between social service and psychology in which the psychologist manager needs to deal with conflict within the team, and on the other hand need to meet, but at the same time negotiating the rules with your team. The Social Protection field appears as the realization of rights.

IL6-174G > C genetic polymorphism influences antidepressant treatment outcome.

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder is a condition associated with dysregulated cytokine levels; among these, IL6. Furthermore, genetic variations within cytokine genes have been proposed to predict antidepressant treatment outcome. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the role of IL6-174G > C and IL6R D358A A > C functional polymorphisms in antidepressant treatment phenotypes, specifically remission, relapse, and treatment resistant depression (TRD). METHODS: The referred polymorphisms were genotyped in 80 MDD patients followed at Hospital Magalhães Lemos, Portugal, within a period of 27 months. RESULTS: It was found that patients carrying IL6-174 GC genotype present a protection towards the development of TRD (OR = 0.242; 95% CI = 0.068-0.869; p = .038), when compared with GG genotype. Additionally, carriers of IL6-174 CC genotype remit earlier than patients with IL6-174 GG/GC genotypes, with a median time to remission of 6 weeks for CC carriers and 15 weeks for GG or GC carriers (p = .030, Log-rank test). No association was found between IL6R D358A genetic polymorphism and any of the treatment phenotypes evaluated. CONCLUSIONS: The IL6-174G > C polymorphism influences antidepressant treatment outcome in this sub-set of MDD patients, providing a putative mechanistic link for the dysregulated IL-6 levels described in the literature in patients with TRD.

FAS -670A>G genetic polymorphism Is associated with Treatment Resistant Depression.

BACKGROUND: Hippocampal neurogenesis has been suggested as a downstream event of antidepressants (AD) mechanism of action and might explain the lag time between AD administration and the therapeutic effect. Despite the widespread use of AD in the context of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) there are no reliable biomarkers of treatment response phenotypes, and a significant proportion of patients display Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). Fas/FasL system is one of the best-known death-receptor mediated cell signaling systems and is recognized to regulate cell proliferation and tumor cell growth. Recently this pathway has been described to be involved in neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. METHODS: Since FAS -670A>G and FASL -844T>C functional polymorphisms never been evaluated in the context of depression and antidepressant therapy, we genotyped FAS -670A>G and FASL -844T>C in a subset of 80 MDD patients to evaluate their role in antidepressant treatment response phenotypes. RESULTS: We found that the presence of FAS -670G allele was associated with antidepressant bad prognosis (relapse or TRD: OR=6.200; 95% CI: [1.875-20.499]; p=0.001), and we observed that patients carrying this allele have a higher risk to develop TRD (OR=10.895; 95% CI: [1.362-87.135]; p=0.008). Moreover, multivariate analysis adjusted to potentials confounders showed that patients carrying G allele have higher risk of early relapse (HR=3.827; 95% CI: [1.072-13.659]; p=0.039). FAS mRNA levels were down-regulated among G carriers, whose genotypes were more common in TRD patients. No association was found between FASL-844T>C genetic polymorphism and any treatment phenotypes. LIMITATIONS: Small sample size. Patients used antidepressants with different mechanisms of action. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge this is the first study to evaluate the role of FAS functional polymorphism in the outcome of antidepressant therapy. This preliminary report associates FAS -670A>G genetic polymorphism with Treatment Resistant Depression and with time to relapse. The current results may possibly be given to the recent recognized role of Fas in neurogenesis and/or neuroplasticity.

OCCURRENCE OF Blastocystis spp. IN UBERABA, MINAS GERAIS, BRAZIL / Ocorrência de Blastocystis spp. em Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Intestinal parasites are a problem for public health all over the world. The infection with Blastocystis, a protozoan of controversial pathogenicity, is one of the most common among them all. In this study, the occurrence of intestinal parasites, with emphasis on Blastocystis, in patients at the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro was investigated in Uberaba (MG) through microscopy of direct smears and fecal concentrates using Ritchie’s method. Feces of 1,323 patients were examined from April 2011 to May 2012. In 28.7% of them at least one intestinal parasite was identified, and the most frequent organisms were Blastocystis spp. (17.8%) and Giardia intestinalis (7.4%). The occurrence of parasitism was higher in children aged 6 -10 years old, and the infection with Blastocystis spp. was higher above the age of six (p < 0.001). The exclusive presence of G. intestinalis and of Blastocystis spp. was observed in 5.4% and 12.2% of the patients, respectively. Regarding patients with diarrheic feces, 8% revealed unique parasitism of Blastocystis spp. Other intestinal parasites observed in children were Ascaris lumbricoides (0.3%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii (1.4%). The Ritchie’s method was more sensitive (92.8%) when compared to direct microscopy (89.8%), with high agreement between them (97.7%, kappa = 0.92). In conclusion, the occurrence of Blastocystis spp. in Uberaba is high and the presence of diarrheic feces with exclusive presence of the parasite of Blastocystis spp. was observed.

Parasitos intestinais são um problema de saúde pública no mundo e a infecção por Blastocystis, protozoário de patogenicidade controversa, é uma das mais frequentes. Nesse estudo foi investigada a ocorrência de parasitos intestinais em pacientes atendidos na Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, em Uberaba (MG), com ênfase em Blastocystis, pelos métodos parasitológicos direto e de Ritchie. Foram examinadas fezes de 1.323 pacientes de abril/2011 a maio/2012. Em 28,7% deles foi identificado um parasito intestinal, sendo Blastocystis spp. (17,8%) e Giardia intestinalis (7,4%) os mais frequentes. A ocorrência de parasitismo foi maior em crianças de 6-10 anos e a infecção por Blastocystis spp. foi maior acima de seis anos (p < 0,001). Presença exclusiva de G. intestinalis e de Blastocystis spp. foi observada em 5,4% e 12,2% dos pacientes, respectivamente, sendo que dos pacientes com fezes diarreicas, 8% apresentavam parasitismo exclusivo por Blastocystis spp. Outros parasitos intestinais observados em crianças foram Ascaris lumbricoides (0,3%) e Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii (1,4%). O método de Ritchie foi mais sensível (92,8%) que o direto (89,8%), com alta concordância entre eles (97,7%, kappa = 0,92). Em conclusão, a ocorrência de Blastocystis spp. em Uberaba é elevada e foi observada a presença de fezes diarreicas com parasitismo exclusivo por Blastocystis spp.

Aggressive mature natural killer cell neoplasms: report on a series of 12 European patients with emphasis on flow cytometry based immunophenotype and DNA content of neoplastic natural killer cells.

We report 12 cases of aggressive natural killer (NK) cell neoplasms diagnosed in Portugal, with emphasis on flow cytometry. Ten patients had extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type and two had aggressive NK cell leukemia, and seven were men and five were women, with a median age of 50 years. NK cells brightly expressed the CD56 adhesion molecule and CD94 lectin type killer receptor and had an activation-related HLA-DR+ CD45RA+ CD45RO+ immunophenotype, in most cases. In contrast, dim CD16 expression was found in a minor proportion of cases, whereas CD57 and the CD158a and CD158e1 killer immunoglobulin-like receptors were negative. One-third of cases showed a hyperploid DNA content and nearly all had a very high S-phase proliferative rate. The phenotypic features of the neoplastic NK cells would suggest that they represent the transformed counterpart of the CD56 + bright NK cells that circulate in normal blood.

Ultrastructural aspects of Cystoisospora belli (syn. Isospora belli) in continuous cell lines.

Cystoisospora belli is an opportunistic protozoan that causes human cystoisosporiasis, an infection characterized by diarrhea, steatorrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. The lack of animal models susceptible to C. belli, and the difficulty in obtaining clinical samples with fair amounts of oocysts have limited the research pertaining to the basic biology of this parasite. This study aimed to describe the ultrastructure of endogenous stages of C. belli in Monkey Rhesus Kidney Cells (MK2) and Human Ileocecal Adenocarcinoma cells (HCT-8). Zoites of C. belli exhibited typical morphological features of coccidia, which included a trilaminar pellicle, an apical complex formed by a conoid, polar rings, rhoptries, and micronemes, in addition to dense granules and the endoplasmic reticulum. No crystalloid body was observed but various lipid and amylopectin granules were usually present in the cytoplasm of zoites. We observed a tendency of the endoplasmic reticulum of the host cell to be located near the parasitophorous vacuole membrane. Merozoites were formed by endodyogeny and during replication, the apical complex of the mother cell remained intact. The formation of gametes or oocysts was not observed. The ultrastructural findings of C. belli are further evidence of its proximity to Sarcocystidae family members and corroborate their reclassification as Cystoisospora spp.

Prevalence and genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. and Cystoisospora belli in HIV-infected patients.

Cryptosporidium spp. and Cystoisospora belli are monoxenic protozoa that have been recognized as the causative agents of chronic diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals, especially HIV-infected subjects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of these intestinal protozoa in HIV-positive patients in the Triângulo Mineiro region of Brazil and to correlate the presence of these infections with clinical, epidemiological and laboratory data of the patients. Oocysts were detected in stool samples of 10 (16.9%) of the 59 patients studied, while Cryptosporidium spp. were present in 10.1% (6/59) and C. belli in 6.7% (4/59). The frequency of these parasites was higher among patients with diarrheic syndrome and CD4+ T lymphocyte counts < 200 cells/mm 3 , demonstrating the opportunistic characteristic of these infections. A significant association was observed between the lack of adherence to antiretroviral therapy and the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. and/or C. belli. Parasitism with Cryptosporidium spp. was more frequent in February and April, the months following the period of high rainfall. The same was not observed for C. belli. Genetic characterization of two isolates led to the identification of Cryptosporidium parvum, one of the main species associated with the zoonotic transmission of cryptosporidiosis.

Prevalence and genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. and Cystoisospora belli in HIV-infected patients / Prevalência e caracterização genética de Cryptosporidium spp. e Cystoisospora belli em pacientes infectados pelo HIV

Cryptosporidium spp. and Cystoisospora belli are monoxenic protozoa that have been recognized as the causative agents of chronic diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals, especially HIV-infected subjects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of these intestinal protozoa in HIV-positive patients in the Triângulo Mineiro region of Brazil and to correlate the presence of these infections with clinical, epidemiological and laboratory data of the patients. Oocysts were detected in stool samples of 10 (16.9%) of the 59 patients studied, while Cryptosporidium spp. were present in 10.1% (6/59) and C. belli in 6.7% (4/59). The frequency of these parasites was higher among patients with diarrheic syndrome and CD4+ T lymphocyte counts < 200 cells/mm 3 , demonstrating the opportunistic characteristic of these infections. A significant association was observed between the lack of adherence to antiretroviral therapy and the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. and/or C. belli. Parasitism with Cryptosporidium spp. was more frequent in February and April, the months following the period of high rainfall. The same was not observed for C. belli. Genetic characterization of two isolates led to the identification of Cryptosporidium parvum, one of the main species associated with the zoonotic transmission of cryptosporidiosis.

Cryptosporidium spp. e Cystoisospora belli são protozoários monoxenos reconhecidos como agentes causadores de diarréia crônica em indivíduos imunocomprometidos, especialmente aqueles infectados pelo HIV. Os objetivos deste estudo foram o de avaliar a frequência destes protozoários em pacientes HIV - positivos na região do Triângulo Mineiro, Brasil, e correlacionar a presença destas infecções com dados clínicos, epidemiológicos e laboratoriais dos pacientes. Oocistos foram detectados em amostras fecais de 10 (16,9%) dos 59 pacientes estudados, sendo 10.1% (6/59) das amostras positivas para Cryptosporidium spp. e 6,7% (4/59) das amostras positivas para C. belli. A frequência destes parasitos foi maior entre pacientes com síndrome diarreica e contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ < 200 cells/mm 3 , o que demonstra o caráter oportunista destas infecções. Foi observada uma associação significativa entre a falta de aderência à terapia antiretroviral e a presença de Cryptosporidium spp. e/ou C. belli. Parasitismo por Cryptosporidium spp. foi mais frequente em fevereiro e abril, meses subsequentes ao período chuvoso. O mesmo não foi observado para C. belli. A caracterização genética de dois isolados levou à identificação de Cryptosporidium parvum, uma das principais espécies associadas com a transmissão zoonótica da criptosporidiose.

Indicadores de qualidade da assistência de enfermagem em centro cirúrgico: revisão integrativa da literatura / Indicators of quality of nursing care in surgical center: integrative literature review

A qualidade vem sendo conceituada como valor importantíssimo em todas as áreas estudadas. Para quea qualidade possa ser mensurada, faz-se necessário a elaboração de indicadores que possam traduzi-la numericamente. Este trabalho é uma revisão integrativa da literatura, que teve como objetivo identificar quais são os indicadores de qualidade da assistência de enfermagem em centro cirúrgico. Para a seleção dos artigos utilizaram-se as bases de dados Literatura Latino Americano e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SCIELO) e Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval on-line (MEDLINE). Os artigos incluídos foram os da língua portuguesa do Brasil e com textos completos, disponíveis para acesso on-line. Foram encontrados 13.818 artigos, dos quais 17 atendiam aos critérios de inclusão e constituíram a amostra. Os indicadores mais relevantes estavam relacionados com a Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem Perioperatória (SAEP), sendo cinco indicadores (11,1 por cento), com destaque para a visita pré-operatória do enfermeiro citada em três artigos (6,7 por cento). Os indicadores de incidência de lesão de pele e queda também foram citados em três (6,7 por cento) artigos. Os indicadores de infecção e registro completo foram abordados em dois artigos (4,4 por cento). Concluiu-se que a SAEP, quando utilizada na prática da enfermagem, permite ao enfermeiro qualificar a assistência prestada.