Effects of chemotherapy treatment on muscle strength indicators, functional capacity and biopsychosocial aspects of women with breast cancer.

Evidences on the effects of chemotherapy treatment cycles on measures of muscle, mental state, social and cognitive performance are scarce. The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of chemotherapy cycles on muscle strength and activation, functional capacity, quality of life, fatigue and anxiety of women with breast cancer. Therefore, twenty-two women divided into a treatment group (n = 10; 46.6 ± 9.6 years) and control group (n = 12; 51.6 ± 7.0 years) participated in the study. Analysis of muscle performance, quality of life, fatigue and anxiety after the 2nd and 4th cycle of chemotherapy with anthracyclines were performed in women with breast cancer (TRA) and compared to healthy women (CTR). Two-way ANOVA was used to compare the variance of the means and the significance level was set as P≤0.05. The results showed Differences in the muscular activation of the vastus mediallis between the groups at post time (P = 0.038), as well as in the sit and stand test in the baseline (P<0.001) and post moment (P<0.001). Functional capacity performance was different between baseline (P<0.001) and post-time (P<0.001) groups. Additionally, the TRA group worsened the quality of life in the domains of functional capacity (P<0.001) and limitation of physical aspects (P = 0.002), besides presenting negative changes in fatigue. Thus, anthracycline chemotherapy cycles reduce muscular performance and affect biopsychosocial variables in women with breast cancer.

Antioxidant and anti-Alzheimer's potential of Tetragonisca angustula (Jataí) stingless bee pollen.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is considered the leading cause of dementia in the elderly worldwide. It results in progressive memory loss and impairment of cognitive and motor skills, leading to a high degree of disability and dependence. The development of AD is associated with the accumulation of senile plaques in the brain, caused by the amyloidogenic pathway of the disease. Several genetic and biochemical events are linked to AD development, with oxidative stress being one of them. Due to the scarcity of drugs aimed at treating AD, antioxidant compounds are increasingly studied as therapeutic targets for the disease. In this study, we investigate the antioxidant and anti-Alzheimer potential of the Tetragonisca angustula (Jataí) pollen extract in a Drosophila melanogaster Alzheimer's model. For this purpose, we utilized a D. melanogaster AD-like model, which expresses genes related to the amyloidogenic pathway of Alzheimer's disease. We explored the floral origin of the collected pollen, conducted phytochemical prospecting, and evaluated its antioxidant capacity in vitro. In vivo experiments involved assessing the survival and climbing ability of the D. melanogaster AD-like model with various concentrations of the pollen extract. Our findings revealed that the pollen extract of Tetragonisca angustula exhibits a significant antioxidant response and high concentrations of important phytochemicals, such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Furthermore, it enhanced the survival rate of D. melanogaster, and across all concentrations tested, it improved the climbing ability of the flies after 15 days of treatment with methanolic pollen extract. Additionally, the pollen extract reduced the neurodegeneration index in histopathological analysis. Thus, our study demonstrates the potential of Tetragonisca angustula pollen as an important subject for further investigation, aiming to isolate molecules that could potentially serve as therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.

Comparison of nutritional status and growth curves of children and adolescents in the city of Goiânia, Goiás: cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Nutritional status and growth curves can affect cognitive development, increase the risk of infection, and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Its etiology is related to food, socioeconomic, and maternal conditions. However, to date, no data on these parameters exist in the state of Goiás, Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To compare the nutritional status and growth curves of children and adolescents in the city of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study. A total of 529 individuals were recruited from a primary health center in the municipality. METHODS: To assess nutritional status, the sample was divided into three categories: 3-4, 5-10, and 11-19 years, with z-score classification considering body mass index for age. The classification of growth curves was performed considering the median height values for age, assuming two references: (a) young Brazilian population and (b) one recommended for international use. The independent sample T-test was used to compare anthropometric variables. RESULTS: The results showed that the classification of eutrophics represents a predominant percentage between both sexes (men: 03-04 = 55.4%; 05-10 = 57.6%; 11-19 = 53.5 % and women: 03-04 = 53.5%; 05-10 = 63.9%; 11-19 = 56.9%), and growth curves showed differences in specific periods in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that children and adolescents from the city of Goiânia present as predominance the eutrophic nutritional status, followed by the risk of overweight, underweight, obesity, and malnutrition of both sexes.

Characterization of Artificial Stone Produced with Blast Furnace Dust Waste Incorporated into a Mixture of Epoxy Resin and Cashew Nut Shell Oil.

The demand for materials with improved properties and less negative impact on the environment is growing. Artificial stones are examples of these materials produced with up to 90% of particulate material joined by a binder. This article evaluates the physical and mechanical properties of two artificial stones produced with processing steel residue (blast furnace dust waste) and quartz powder. Two binders were used: pure epoxy resin, denoted as ASPB100, or a mixture of 70 wt% epoxy resin with 30 wt% cashew nut shell oil, denoted as ASPB7030. The process took place under vibration, compression (3 MPa/20 min and 90 °C) and vacuum (80 Pa). ASPB100 showed water absorption of 0.07%, while for ASPB7030, it was 0.54%. They were classified as having high mechanical strength associated with bending stress values equal to 32 and 25 MPa, respectively. Stain resistance indicated that both artificial stones had their stains removed with the tested cleaning agents. In this way, the novel artificial stones produced are sustainable alternatives for the application of blast furnace waste and cashew nut shell oil, reducing their negative impacts on the environment.

Anti-Leucine-Rich Glioma-Inactivated 1 (Anti-LGI 1) Limbic Encephalitis and New-Onset Psychosis: A Case Report.

Anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 limbic encephalitis (Anti-LGI 1 LE) is a subtype of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) and the most common cause of limbic encephalitis (LE). Clinically, it can have an acute to sub-acute onset of confusion and cognitive impairment, facial-brachial dystonic seizures (FDBS), and psychiatric disturbances. The clinical manifestations are varied, and its diagnosis requires high clinical suspicion to avoid delay in the treatment. When patients manifest mostly psychiatric symptoms, the disease may not be immediately recognized. We aim to report a case of Anti-LGI 1 LE in which the patient presented acute psychotic symptoms and was initially diagnosed with unspecified psychosis. We present a case of a patient with sub-acute behavioral changes, short-term memory loss, and insomnia who was brought to the emergency department after a sudden episode of disorganized behavior and speech. On medical examination, the patient presented persecutory delusions and indirect signs of auditory hallucinations. An initial diagnosis of unspecified psychosis was performed. Investigations revealed right temporal epileptiform activity in the electroencephalogram (EEG), abnormal bilateral hyperintensities in the temporal lobes in the brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and a positive titer of anti-LGI 1 antibodies (Abs) in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), leading to a diagnosis of anti-LGI 1 LE. The patient was treated with intravenous (IV) steroids and immunoglobulin and later with IV rituximab. In patients that predominantly present with psychotic and cognitive disorders the diagnosis of anti-LGI 1 LE can be delayed predisposing them to a poorer prognosis (permanent cognitive impairment - especially short-term memory loss - and persistent seizures). It is necessary to be aware of this diagnosis when evaluating acute to sub-acute psychiatric illness developing with cognitive impairment (specially with memory loss) to avoid diagnosis delays and long-term sequelae.

Violência no trabalho: dimensões estruturais e interseccionais / Violence at work: structural and intersectional dimensions

Resumo Introdução: a violência é um fenômeno histórico e sociocultural que acompanha a humanidade desde sua origem. Nos contextos de trabalho, a violência tem sido objeto de renovada atenção nas últimas décadas, em razão da incidência de sérios problemas que assolam os trabalhadores, tais como: os suicídios, a criminalidade e os transtornos mentais e comportamentais. Objetivo: discutir as dimensões estruturais e interseccionais da violência relacionada ao trabalho (VRT). Métodos: foi realizada reflexão teórica assentada na literatura científica. Resultados: os debates sobre a interseccionalidade permitem compreender os riscos psicossociais como resultados das interações dos trabalhadores com os imbricados processos sociais, que remetem às estruturas de poder, notadamente às relações transversais de classe, "raça" e gênero, sem prejuízo à incorporação de outros eixos de diferenciação social que importem para os sujeitos e para a análise do trabalho. Conclusão: conclui-se que a VRT não pode ser adequadamente compreendida e enfrentada sem o entendimento das suas distintas dimensões, bem como das articulações entre elas, das suas manifestações plurais e interseccionais, além de seu caráter sistêmico no modo de produção capitalista.

Abstract Introduction: violence is a historical and sociocultural phenomenon that accompanies humanity since its origin. In work contexts, violence has been the object of renewed attention in recent decades due to the incidence of serious problems affecting workers, such as suicides, criminality, and mental and behavioral disorders. Objective: to discuss the structural and intersectional dimensions of work-related violence (WRV). Methods: a theoretical reflection based on scientific literature was carried out. Results: debates on intersectionality enable us to understand psychosocial risks as a result of workers' interactions with intertwined social processes that refer to power structures, notably cross-cutting relations of class, "race," and gender, without prejudice to the incorporation of other axes of social differentiation that matter to subjects and to the analysis of work. Conclusion: WRV cannot be properly understood and faced without the evaluation of its different dimensions, the articulations between them, its plural and intersectional manifestations, and its systemic character in the capitalist mode of production.

Molecular analysis of the prevalence of Acinetobacter baumannii in hospitals and the surrounding environments: a cross-sectional study

Acinetobacter baumannii is widely recognized in clinical environments due to its infectious capacity, antimicrobial adaptability, and lethality. Analyzing the prevalence of this agent in intra- and extra-hospital environments may reveal target indicators for appropriate management interventions. In this observational cross-sectional study, we evaluated the prevalence of A. baumannii within hospitals with intensive care units and in their external surroundings in a macro-health region of Brazil. Samples of Columba livia (pigeon) droppings from the external environment of four hospitals (n = 40), from floor surfaces (n = 20), and door handles (n = 20) of different hospital wards were collected based on random sampling, all of which were evaluated for the presence of A. baumannii using polymerase chain reactions (PCR). The sensitivity and specificity of the technique was verified after the collected samples were contaminated with clinical samples positive for A. baumannii. We detected a significantly higher A. baumannii prevalence (87.50%, CI = 71.29­100.00) in samples collected within the hospital environment compared with those obtained from the external environment (12.50%, CI = 0.00­28. 71) (p = 0.003). In addition, samples collected from floor surfaces contained bacterial densities (181.3 ± 11.58) that exceeded those in environmental (93.32 ± 1.56) and door handle (142.70 ± 17.14) samples by 94% and 78.71%, respectively. The findings of this study will enhance our understanding of the spatial distribution of A. baumannii and additionally, validate the efficiency of PCR for diagnosis of this infectious agent.

Properties of Luffa Cylindrica Mats Reinforced Castor Oil-Based Polyurethane Composite as an Alternative for Oriented Strand Board.

The main objective of this work was to produce and characterize a novel ecofriendly castor oil-based polyurethane (COPU) matrix composite reinforced by Luffa cylindrica mats, luffa for short, to be used as panels, as an alternative to oriented strand board (OSB). To do so, the mechanical behavior was evaluated by tree point flexural, perpendicular o surface tensile, screw pullout, and impact tests that were carried on the novel composite along with the neat matrix. Furthermore, the physical characteristics, the thermomechanical behavior, and the functional groups of the materials were observed by water absorption and thickness swelling tests along with dilatometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A comparison with commercialized OSB was also performed for control. The luffa/COPU composite was prepared by hand lay-up with 48 vol% of luffa mats incorporated as the maximum allowed by the mold under the available resources for manufacturing. The luffa fibers acted as a good reinforcement for the COPU matrix, where the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity were increased by more than 23 and 10 times, respectively, and the other mechanical properties more than doubled for the composites compared to the neat COPU resin. In general, the composite presented a lower performance compared to the commercial OSB, with the impact results being the exception. The water absorption and thickness swallowing results showed an already-expected behavior for the studied materials, where the better performance was found for the hydrophobic neat resin. The FTIR revealed that there was little interaction between luffa and COPU resin, which can be translated to a weak interface between these materials. However, the mechanical behavior, together with the other results presented by the luffa/COPU composite, confirm it is more than enough to be used as civil construction panels such as OSB.

Effect of Iron Complex Source on MWWTP Effluent Treatment by Solar Photo-Fenton: Micropollutant Degradation, Toxicity Removal and Operating Costs.

Benzophenone-3, fipronil and propylparaben are micropollutants that are potential threats to ecosystems and have been detected in aquatic environments. However, studies involving the investigation of new technologies aiming at their elimination from these matrices, such as advanced oxidation processes, remain scarce. In this study, different iron complexes (FeCit, FeEDTA, FeEDDS and FeNTA) were evaluated for the degradation of a mixture of these micropollutants (100 µg L−1 each) spiked in municipal wastewater treatment plant (MWWTP) effluent at pH 6.9 by solar photo-Fenton. Operational parameters (iron and H2O2 concentration and Fe/L molar ratio) were optimized for each complex. Degradation efficiencies improved significantly by increasing the concentration of iron complexes (1:1 Fe/L) from 12.5 to 100 µmol L−1 for FeEDDS, FeEDTA and FeNTA. The maximum degradation reached with FeCit for all iron concentrations was limited to 30%. Different Fe/L molar ratios were required to maximize the degradation efficiency for each ligand: 1:1 for FeNTA and FeEDTA, 1:3 for FeEDDS and 1:5 for FeCit. Considering the best Fe/L molar ratios, higher degradation rates were reached using 5.9 mmol L−1 H2O2 for FeNTA and FeEDTA compared to 1.5 and 2.9 mmol L−1 H2O2 for FeEDDS and FeCit, respectively. Acute toxicity to Canton S. strain D. melanogaster flies reduced significantly after treatment for all iron complexes, indicating the formation of low-toxicity by-products. FeNTA was considered the best iron complex source in terms of the kinetic constant (0.10 > 0.063 > 0.051 > 0.036 min−1 for FeCit, FeNTA, FeEDTA and FeEDDS, respectively), organic carbon input and cost-benefit (USD 327 m−3 > USD 20 m−3 > USD 16 m−3 > USD 13 m−3 for FeEDDS, FeCit, FeEDTA and FeNTA, respectively) when compared to the other tested complexes.

Identification of bioactive peptides from a Brazilian kefir sample, and their anti-Alzheimer potential in Drosophila melanogaster.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly, affecting cognitive, intellectual, and motor functions. Different hypotheses explain AD's mechanism, such as the amyloidogenic hypothesis. Moreover, this disease is multifactorial, and several studies have shown that gut dysbiosis and oxidative stress influence its pathogenesis. Knowing that kefir is a probiotic used in therapies to restore dysbiosis and that the bioactive peptides present in it have antioxidant properties, we explored its biotechnological potential as a source of molecules capable of modulating the amyloidogenic pathway and reducing oxidative stress, contributing to the treatment of AD. For that, we used Drosophila melanogaster model for AD (AD-like flies). Identification of bioactive peptides in the kefir sample was made by proteomic and peptidomic analyses, followed by in vitro evaluation of antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibition potential. Flies were treated and their motor performance, brain morphology, and oxidative stress evaluated. Finally, we performed molecular docking between the peptides found and the main pathology-related proteins in the flies. The results showed that the fraction with the higher peptide concentration was positive for the parameters evaluated. In conclusion, these results revealed these kefir peptide-rich fractions have therapeutic potential for AD.

HDLBP binds ER-targeted mRNAs by multivalent interactions to promote protein synthesis of transmembrane and secreted proteins.

The biological role of RNA-binding proteins in the secretory pathway is not well established. Here, we describe that human HDLBP/Vigilin directly interacts with more than 80% of ER-localized mRNAs. PAR-CLIP analysis reveals that these transcripts represent high affinity HDLBP substrates and are specifically bound in their coding sequences (CDS), in contrast to CDS/3'UTR-bound cytosolic mRNAs. HDLBP crosslinks strongly to long CU-rich motifs, which frequently reside in CDS of ER-localized mRNAs and result in high affinity multivalent interactions. In addition to HDLBP-ncRNA interactome, quantification of HDLBP-proximal proteome confirms association with components of the translational apparatus and the signal recognition particle. Absence of HDLBP results in decreased translation efficiency of HDLBP target mRNAs, impaired protein synthesis and secretion in model cell lines, as well as decreased tumor growth in a lung cancer mouse model. These results highlight a general function for HDLBP in the translation of ER-localized mRNAs and its relevance for tumor progression.

Evaluation of the botulinum toxin effects in the correction of gummy smile 32 weeks after application / Avaliação dos efeitos da toxina botulínica na correção do sorriso gengival 32 semanas pós-aplicação

INTRODUCTION: The use of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) to correct gummy smile has become popular in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of BTX-A application in the correction of gummy smile 2 and 32 weeks after application. METHODS: The sample comprised 35 patients (30 female, 5 male) at a mean age of 25.51 years (±5.59) with gummy smile due to muscular hyperfunction. In each patient, 2U of botulinum toxin was applied in the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, 2 mm from the nasolabial fold. Photographs of spontaneous smiles were taken at 3 stages: before, 2 and 32 weeks after BTX application. Measurements of the gingival display were performed with the Radioface Studio 2 Software, and the calibration used the actual size of the right maxillary central incisor. Comparison of the three stages evaluated was performed with repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey tests. RESULTS: Gingival display decreased significantly 2 weeks after BTX-A application and increased after 32 weeks but did not return to the initial value. CONCLUSION: There was a significant improvement in gummy smile 2 weeks after botulinum toxin application, and a significant relapse in the gingival display after 32 weeks, however not returning to baseline values.

INTRODUÇÃO: A toxina botulínica tipo A (BTX-A) tem se tornado popular na correção do sorriso gengival nos últimos anos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da aplicação de BTX-A na correção do sorriso gengival 2 e 32 semanas após a aplicação. MÉTODOS: A amostra compreendeu 35 pacientes (30 mulheres, 5 homens) com uma idade inicial média 25,51 anos (±5,59) portadores de sorriso gengival devido à hiperfunção muscular. Em cada paciente foi aplicado 2U de BTX-A no músculo elevador superior da asa do nariz, 2 mm a partir da dobra nasolabial. Foram feitas fotografias dos sorrisos espontâneos dos pacientes em 3 fases: antes, 2 e 32 semanas após a aplicação de BTX-A. As medidas da exposição gengival foram feitas com o Software Radioface Studio 2, e a calibração utilizou o tamanho real do incisive central superior direito. A comparação das 3 fases foi feita com ANOVA de medidas repetidas e teste de Tukey. RESULTADOS: A exposição gengival diminuiu significantemente 2 semanas após a aplicação e aumentou novamente após 32 semanas, mas não retornando aos valores iniciais. CONCLUSÃO: Houve uma melhora significante no sorriso gengival 2 semanas após a aplicação de toxina Botulínica, e uma recidiva significante após 32 semanas, mas não retornando aos valores iniciais.

Grape Canes (Vitis vinifera L.) Applications on Packaging and Particleboard Industry: New Bioadhesive Based on Grape Extracts and Citric Acid.

The main by-product generated in the wine industry are the grape canes, derived from the pruning process. In order to increase the valorisation possibilities of this highly polyphenolic lignocellulosic material, this work focuses on its applicability in the materials industry. As a first step, we demonstrate the viability of using grape cane particles as raw material for particleboard production, combined with a melamine formaldehyde urea (MFU) binder. In addition, looking for the application of these particleboards in the food packaging industry, particleboards based on grape canes were also produced using a new bioadhesive, obtained from the grape cane extract and citric acid. The self-condensation reaction of the grape cane extracts, and the curing reaction with citric acid, were studied by FTIR-ATR and ABES showing the feasibility of this new bioadhesive formulation. Looking for a zero-waste process, the effect of the type of raw material (fresh grape cane, solid by-product of the extraction) and of the extract used on the properties of particleboard were also studied. Citric acid was demonstrated to be a good crosslinking agent for grape cane extract. This work shows that it is possible to produce a new lignocellulosic product based only on grape cane particles using a binder based on grape cane extracts and citric acid. The implemented methodology allowed producing particleboards with applicability in the food-packaging industry, minimizing the waste generated in the process.

Recurrence Rate for Melanoma Excised by Mohs Micrographic Surgery Without Immunostaining.

BACKGROUND: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of cutaneous melanoma (CM) as multiple studies have demonstrated favorable outcomes for local recurrence and overall survival. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the outcomes of noninvasive (NIM) and invasive melanomas (IM) using MMS with fresh frozen sections. The primary outcome was local recurrence. The secondary outcome was to identify mean surgical margins based on tumor type and location. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of 224 cases of CM treated from 2006 to 2016 at a tertiary academic center with MMS and fresh frozen sections by a single Mohs surgeon. RESULTS: The overall recurrence rate was 2.6% with a mean follow-up of 36.2 months. The recurrence rate for NIM versus IM was 1.6% and 7%, respectively. The mean margins for NIM and IM were 7.9 mm and 10.1 mm, respectively. These varied by tumor site and location. CONCLUSION: This study supports the use of MMS in the treatment of CM and highlights how narrower surgical margins for NIM of the head and neck can be achieved without increasing risk of local recurrence.

Differential gene expression by RNA-seq during Alzheimer's disease-like progression in the Drosophila melanogaster model.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive, irreversible loss of memory and cognitive function. Drosophila melanogaster and other animal models are used to study several diseases, in order to elucidate unknown mechanisms and develop potential therapies. Molecular studies require biological samples and, for neuropathologies such as AD biopsy of the human brain, are invasive and potentially damaging. The solution is to use animal models, such as D. melanogaster, which is a model organism that can replace mammalian organisms in such studies. In this study, we evaluated the climbing ability and differential gene expression during AD progression due to the amylodoigenic pathway using RNA-seq, and we performed an in silico analysis of a fruit fly AD-like GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) model with GFP expression in the pan-neural elav driver. A total of 1388 genes were differentially expressed in all analyzed groups. The main pathways related to those Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) during aging and AD progression were evaluated using the fly genes and human orthologs, in order to link genomic information to higher-order functional information with gene pathway mapping. We identified pathways present in all analyzed groups, such as metabolic pathways, ribosomal pathways, proteasome pathways and immune system pathways. Some of the genes were validated by qPCR. Knockdown of CG17754 gene by RNAi promoted degeneration in the fly eye, validating these findings in vivo. The identification of similarities in molecular pathways between the transgenic fly AD-like GFP model and mammals related to AD provides new insights into the use of this fly in screening novel anti-AD drugs.

A pilot randomized controlled trial of smartphone-assisted mindfulness-based intervention with contingency management for smokers with mood disorders.

Cigarette smoking disproportionately affects individuals with mood disorders, but smoking cessation interventions have modest effects in this population. Home mindfulness practice during abstinence incentivized via contingency management (CM) may help those in affective distress quit smoking. METHOD: Adult smokers receiving outpatient psychiatric treatment for mood disorders were randomized to receive a smartphone-assisted mindfulness-based smoking cessation intervention with contingency management (SMI-CM, n = 25) or enhanced standard treatment (EST, n = 24) with noncontingent rewards. Participants in SMI-CM were prompted to practice audio-guided mindfulness five times per day for 38 days (vs. no comparison intervention in EST), and received monetary incentives for carbon monoxide (CO) ≤ 6 ppm. The primary outcome was biochemically verified 7-day point prevalence abstinence rates 2, 4, and 13 weeks after a target quit day. RESULTS: Of the 49 participants, 63.3% were Latinx and 30.6% Black; 75.5% reported household incomes < $25,000. Abstinence rates for SMI-CM were 40.0%, 36.0%, and 16.0% versus 4.2%, 8.3%, and 4.2% in EST at weeks 2, 4, and 13. A generalized estimating equations (GEE) model showed significant overall differences in abstinence rates in SMI-CM versus EST (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 8.12, 95% CI = 1.42-46.6, p = .019). Those who received SMI-CM reported significantly greater reduction in smoking-specific experiential avoidance from baseline to 3 days prior to quit date (ß = -7.21, 95% CI = -12.1-2.33, p = .006). CONCLUSIONS: SMI-CM may increase cessation rates among smokers with mood disorders, potentially through reduced smoking-specific experiential avoidance. SMI-CM is a promising intervention, and warrants investigation in a fully powered randomized controlled trial (RCT). (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Surgical treatment of verrucous carcinoma: a review.

BACKGROUND: Verrucous carcinoma is a rare mucocutaneous malignancy characterized by slow, relentless growth and a low metastasis rate. OBJECTIVE: Herein we summarize surgical success rates and review newer approaches to the treatment of verrucous carcinomas. METHODS AND MATERIALS: PubMed electronic searches were performed by B.F. and C.V. using combinations of the following terms: "verrucous carcinoma," "Ackerman tumor," "Buschke Lowenstein," "epithelioma cuniculatum," "carcinoma cuniculatum," "papillomatosis cutis," "treatment," "therapeutics," "management," "mohs surgery," and "excision." A systematic review was conducted on 49 articles in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Surgical management remains first-line therapy. Wide local excision is most commonly utilized, with highly variable margins (0.5-3.0 cm) and recurrence rates (4.6-75.0%). Mohs Micrographic Surgery has also been used, especially for recurrent tumors, with an overall recurrence rate of 12.9%. CONCLUSION: Surgery is the treatment of choice, either by Mohs Micrographic Surgery or wide local excision. However, surgical recurrence rates are high, and tissue-sparing therapies are desirable given the sensitive locations involved. Ultimately, randomized control trials are needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for the management of VCs.

Fundamentos da contrarreforma trabalhista do governo temer e suas repercussões para a classe trabalhadora / Los fundamentos de la contrarreforma laboral del gobierno de temer y sus repercusiones para la clase obrera / Elements of the temer presidency's counter-reformation and its repercussions for the working class

Resumo: Neste artigo, discutimos fundamentos político-ideológicos da Contrarreforma Trabalhista (Lei nº 13.467 de 13 de julho de 2017), que alterou a Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho. Com base em uma análise bibliográfica e documental, recorrendo a fontes primárias e secundárias, concluímos que essa contrarreforma não decorreu de diálogo amplo e profundo com a sociedade. As modificações nos dispositivos jurídicos, efetivadas em um processo de tramitação açodado, contradizem documentos legais e afrontam objetivos, princípios, direitos e garantias constitucionais, bem como convenções internacionais da Organização Internacional do Trabalho. Os fundamentos da contrarreforma residem no plano político-econômico e alinham-se à lógica neoliberal. Ela foi ancorada em discursos que disseminaram argumentos equivocados e inverdades. Mais de quatro anos após sua aprovação, as taxas de desemprego permanecem elevadas, a retomada do desenvolvimento econômico não se efetivou e a precarização das relações de trabalho foi aprofundada, com o recrudescimento da informalidade e vulnerabilidade social da classe trabalhadora.

Abstract: In this article, we discuss the political-ideological foundations of the Labor Counter-Reformation (Law nº 13.467 of July 13, 2017) which amended the Consolidation of Labor Laws. Based on a bibliographical and documentary analysis, using primary and secondary sources, we concluded that this Counter-Reformation did not result from a broad and deep dialogue with society. The changes in legal provisions, carried out in a rushed process, contradict legal documents and violate Constitutional objectives, principles, rights and guarantees, as well as international conventions of the International Labor Organization. The foundations of the Counter-Reformation reside on the political-economic level and are aligned with the neoliberal logic. It was anchored in speeches that disseminated misguided arguments and untruths. More than four years after its approval, unemployment rates remain high, the resumption of economic development has not taken place and the precariousness of labor relations has deepened, with the resurging of informality and social vulnerability of the working class.

Resumen: En este artículo discutimos los fundamentos politico-ideológicos de la Contrarreforma Laboral (Ley nº 13.467 del 13 de julio de 2017), que modificó las Consolidación de las Leyes del Trabajo. Con base en un análisis bibliográfico y documental, utilizando fuentes primarias y secundarias, concluimos que esta contrarreforma no resultó de un diálogo amplio y profundo con la sociedad. Los cambios en las disposiciones legales, realizados en un proceso apresurado, contradicen los documentos legales y violan los objetivos, principios, derechos y garantías constitucionales, así como los convenios internacionales de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo. Los fundamentos de la contrarreforma residen en el plano político-económico y se alinean con la lógica neoliberal. La contrarreforma se ancló en discursos que difundieron argumentos equivocados y falsedades. A más de cuatro años de su aprobación, las tasas de desempleo se mantienen altas, no se ha producido la reanundación del desarrollo económico y se ha profundizado la precariedad de las relaciones laborales, con el resurgimiento de la informalidad y vulnerabilidad social de la clase obrera.

A qualidade de sono de fisioterapeutas de um hospital público durante a pandemia de Covid-19 / The quality of sleep of physiotherapists in a public hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic

INTRODUÇÃO: A pandemia de covid-19 tornou necessário estudos sobre o impacto da pandemia e das novas rotinas de trabalho impostas ao trabalhador no estado de saúde de profissionais de saúde, em especial os fisioterapeutas hospitalares. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a qualidade de sono e sonolência diurna de profissionais de fisioterapia hospitalar durante o período de pandemia do covid-19. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Pesquisa observacional, transversal, prospectiva em um hospital público do nordeste brasileiro. A pesquisa teve como público-alvo fisioterapeutas hospitalares atuantes ou não em setores covid durante a pandemia de covid-19. Foram aplicados os instrumentos Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh (IQSP), Escala de Sonolência de Epworth (ESE) e questionários com características demográficas, trabalho, saúde e percepção de estresse. RESULTADOS: Participaram do estudo 45 fisioterapeutas e foi observado que 62,2% eram do sexo feminino, 66,7% relataram trabalhar 60h por semana e 55,6% trabalharam em setor covid e não covid. Observou-se elevada frequência de má qualidade do sono (68,9%) independente de carga horária ou setor de trabalho. Houve maior prevalência de sonolência diurna excessiva (43,3%) entre os fisioterapeutas que trabalhavam 60h por semana. CONCLUSÃO: Os fisioterapeutas hospitalares de uma instituição pública têm má qualidade do sono e aqueles que trabalham com maior carga horária apresentam maior prevalência de sonolência diurna excessiva.

INTRODUCTION: The covid-19 pandemic has made it necessary to study the impact of the pandemic and the new work routines imposed on workers on the health status of health professionals, especially hospital-based physical therapists. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of sleep and daytime sleepiness of hospital-based physical therapists during the covid-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an observational, cross-sectional, prospective study conducted in a public hospital in northeastern Brazil. The research had as target audience, hospital-based physical therapists working or not in covid sectors during the covid-19 pandemic. We applied the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and questionnaires with demographic, work, health, and stress perception characteristics. RESULTS: Forty-five physical therapists participated in the study, and it was observed that 62.2% were female, 66.7% reported working 60h per week, and 55.6% worked in the covid and non-covid sectors. A high frequency of poor sleep quality (68.9%) was observed regardless of workload or work sector. In addition, there was a higher prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness (43.3%) among physical therapists who worked 60h per week. CONCLUSION: Hospital-based physical therapists in a public institution have poor sleep quality, and those who work more hours have a higher prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness.

TNF-mimetic peptide mixed with fibrin glue improves peripheral nerve regeneration.

Surgical intervention is necessary following nerve trauma. Tubular prostheses can guide growing axons and inserting substances within these prostheses can be positive for the regeneration, making it an alternative for the current standard tools for nerve repair. Our aim was to investigate the effects of fibrin glue BthTL when combined with a synthetic TNF mimetic-action peptide on nerve regeneration. Male Wistar rats suffered left sciatic nerve transection. For repairing, we used empty silicon tubes (n = 10), tubes filled with fibrin glue BthTL (Tube + Glue group, n = 10) or tubes filled with fibrin glue BThTL mixed with TNF mimetic peptide (Tube + Glue + Pep group, n = 10). Animals were euthanized after 45 days. We collected nerves to perform immunostaining (neurofilament, GAP43, S100-ß, NGFRp75 and Iba-1), light and transmission electron microscopy (for counting myelinated, unmyelinated and degenerated fibers; and for the evaluation of morphometric aspects of regenerated fibers) and collagen staining. All procedures were approved by local ethics committee (protocol 063/17). Tube + Glue + Pep group showed intense inflammatory infiltrate, higher Iba-1 expression, increased immunostaining for NGFRp75 receptor (which characterizes Schwann cell regenerative phenotype), higher myelin thickness and fiber diameter and more type III collagen deposition. Tube + Glue group showed intermediate results between empty tube and Tube + Glue + Pep groups for anti-NGFRp75 immunostaining, inflammation and collagen; on fiber counts, this group showed more degenerate fibers and fewer unmyelinated axons than others. Empty tube group showed superiority only in GAP43 immunostaining. A combination of BthTL glue and TNF mimetic peptide induced greater axonal regrowth and remyelination.