Using marine mussels to assess the potential ecotoxicological effects of two different commercial microplastics.

Microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment pose a serious threat to biota, by being confounded with food. These effects occur in mussels which are filter-feeding organisms. Mussels from the genus Mytilus sp. were used to evaluate the ecotoxicological effects of two MPs, polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), after 4 and 28-days. Measured individual endpoints were condition index and feeding rate; and sub-individual parameters, metabolism of phase I (CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4) and II (glutathione S-transferases - GSTs), and antioxidant defense (catalase - CAT). MPs decreased both condition index (CI) and feeding rate (FR). No alterations occurred in metabolic enzymes, suggesting that these MPs are not metabolized by these pathways. Furthermore, lack of alterations in GSTs and CAT activities suggests the absence of conjugation and oxidative stress. Overall, biochemical markers were not responsive, but non-enzymatic responses showed deleterious effects caused by these MPs, which may be of high ecological importance.

Effects of microplastics on key reproductive and biochemical endpoints of the freshwater microcrustacean Daphnia magna.

Human activities have directly impacted the environment, causing significant ecological imbalances. From the different contaminants resulting from human activities, plastics are of major environmental concern. Due to their high use and consequent discharge, plastics tend to accumulate in aquatic environments. There, plastics can form smaller particles (microplastics, MPs), due to fragmentation and weathering, which are more prone to interact with aquatic organisms and cause deleterious effects, including at the basis of different food webs. This study assessed the effects of two microplastics (polyethylene terephthalate, PET; and polypropylene, PP; both of common domestic use) in the freshwater cladoceran species Daphnia magna. Toxic effects were assessed by measuring reproductive traits (first brood and total number of offspring), and activities of biomarkers involved in xenobiotic metabolism (phase I: cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes CYP1A1, 1A2 and 3A4; phase II/conjugation: glutathione S-transferases; and antioxidant defense (catalase)). Both MPs showed a potential to significantly reduce reproductive parameters in D. magna. Furthermore, PET caused a significant increase in some isoenzymes of CYP450 in acutely exposed organisms, but this effect was not observed in chronically exposed animals. Similarly, the activity of the antioxidant defense (CAT) was significantly increased in acutely exposed animals, but not in chronically exposed organisms. This pattern of effects suggests a possible mechanism of long-term adaptation to the presence of the tested MPs. In conclusion, the herein tested MPs have shown the potential to induce deleterious effects on D. magna mainly observed in terms of the reproductive outcomes. Changes at the biochemical level seems transient and are not likely to occur in long term, environmentally exposed crustaceans.

Multimorbidity and use of health services in a population diagnosed with COVID-19 in a municipality in the Southern Region of Brazil, 2020-2021: a cross-sectional study / Multimorbilidad y uso de servicios de salud en una población diagnosticada con covid-19 en un municipio de la región sur de Brasil, 2020-2021: estudio transversal / Multimorbidade e uso de serviços de saúde em população diagnosticada com covid-19 em município da região Sul do Brasil, 2020-2021: estudo transversal

Abstract Objective: To assess association between multimorbidity and use of health services in a population diagnosed with COVID-19, in southern Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with data from a longitudinal study carried out in the city of Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2021 with all adult individuals diagnosed with COVID-19; descriptive analyses were performed and presented as proportions with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI); Poisson regression was performed and reported as prevalence ratios (PR) in order to assess association between multimorbidity (3 or more diseases) and healthcare service use. Results: In total, 2,919 participants were included, of which 40.4% had multimorbidity (≥ 2 diseases); the adjusted results showed that individuals with multimorbidity were more likely to use most of the services assessed, PR = 3.21 (95%CI 1.40;7.37), for Emergency Rooms. Conclusion: Multimorbidity was associated with using different types of health services.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar la asociación entre multimorbilidad y uso de servicios de salud en una población diagnosticada con COVID-19, en el Sur de Brasil. Métodos: Estudio transversal con datos de un estudio longitudinal realizado en la ciudad de Río Grande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, en el año 2021, con todos los individuos adultos diagnosticados con COVID-19; se realizaron análisis descriptivos y se presentaron como proporciones con intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC95%); se realizó una regresión de Poisson y se informó como razón de prevalencia (PR). Resultados: En total se incluyeron 2.919 participantes, de los cuales el 40,4% presentaba multimorbilidad (≥ 2 doenças); los resultados ajustados mostraron que los individuos con multimorbilidad tenían mayor probabilidad de utilizar la mayoría de los servicios evaluados, RP = 3,21 (IC95% 1,40;7,37) para unidades Primeros auxilios. Conclusión: La multimorbilidad se asoció con el uso de diferentes tipos de servicios de salud.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre multimorbidade e uso de serviços de saúde em uma população diagnosticada com covid-19, no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, utilizando-se dados de um estudo longitudinal realizado na cidade de Rio Grande, estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, em 2021, com todos os indivíduos adultos diagnosticados com covid-19; análises descritivas foram realizadas e apresentadas como proporções com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%); a regressão de Poisson foi realizada e relatada como razão de prevalências (RP), para avaliar a associação entre multimorbidade e utilização de serviços de saúde. Resultados: Dos 2.919 participantes, 40,4% apresentavam multimorbidade (≥ 2 doenças); os resultados ajustados mostraram que indivíduos com multimorbidade (3 ou mais doenças) apresentaram maior probabilidade de utilização da maioria dos serviços avaliados (RP = 3,21; IC95% 1,40;7,37) em unidades de pronto-socorro. Conclusão: A multimorbidade esteve associada à utilização de diferentes tipos de serviços de saúde.

Associations of hospitalisation - admission, readmission and length to stay - with multimorbidity patterns by age and sex in adults and older adults: the ELSI-Brazil study.

BACKGROUND: Although the association between multimorbidity (MM) and hospitalisation is known, the different effects of MM patterns by age and sex in this outcome needs to be elucidated. Our study aimed to analyse the association of hospitalisations' variables (occurrence, readmission, length of stay) and patterns of multimorbidity (MM) according to sex and age. METHODS: Data from 8.807 participants aged ≥ 50 years sourced from the baseline of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSI-Brazil) were analysed. Multimorbidity was defined as ≥ 2 (MM2) and ≥ 3 (MM3) chronic conditions. Poisson regression was used to verify the association between the independent variables and hospitalisation according to sex and age group. Multiple linear regression models were constructed for the outcomes of readmission and length of stay. Ising models were used to estimate the networks of diseases and MM patterns. RESULTS: Regarding the risk of hospitalisation among those with MM2, we observed a positive association with male sex, age ≥ 75 years and women aged ≥ 75 years. For MM3, there was a positive association with hospitalisation among males. For the outcomes hospital readmission and length of stay, we observed a positive association with male sex and women aged ≥ 75 years. Network analysis identified two groups that are more strongly associated with occurrence of hospitalisation: the cardiovascular-cancer-glaucoma-cataract group stratified by sex and the neurodegenerative diseases-renal failure-haemorrhagic stroke group stratified by age group. CONCLUSION: We conclude that the association between hospitalisation, readmission, length of stay, and MM changes when sex and age group are considered. Differences were identified in the MM patterns associated with hospitalisation according to sex and age group.

Mirabegron and Anticholinergics in the Treatment of Overactive Bladder Syndrome: A Meta-analysis / Mirabegron e anticolinérgicos no tratamento da síndrome da bexiga hiperativa: metanálise

Abstract Objective To compare the use of mirabegron with anticholinergics drugs for the treatment of overactive bladder (OB). Data Source Systematic searches were conducted in EMBASE, PUBMED, Cochrane, and LILACS databases from inception to September 2021. We included RCTs, women with clinically proven OB symptoms, studies that compared mirabegron to antimuscarinic drugs, and that evaluated the efficacy, safety or adherence. Data Collection RevMan 5.4 was used to combine results across studies. We derived risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences with 95% CIs using a random-effects meta-analytic model. Cochrane Collaboration Tool and GRADE was applied for risk of bias and quality of the evidence. Data Synthesis We included 14 studies with a total of 10,774 patients. Fewer total adverse events was reported in mirabegron group than in antimuscarinics group [RR 0.93 (0.89-0.98)]. The risk of gastrointestinal tract disorders and dry mouth were lower with mirabegron [RR 0,58 (0.48-0.68); 9375 patients; RR 0.44 (0.35-0.56), 9375 patients, respectively]. No difference was reported between mirabegron and antimuscarinics drugs for efficacy. The adherence to treatment was 87.7% in both groups [RR 0.99 (0.98-1.00)]. Conclusion Mirabegron and antimuscarinics have comparable efficacy and adherence rates; however, mirabegron showed fewer total and isolated adverse events.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar o uso de mirabegrom com anticolinérgicos para o tratamento da bexiga hiperativa (BH). Fonte de Dados Buscas sistemáticas foram realizadas nas bases de dados EMBASE, PUBMED, Cochrane e LILACS desde o início até setembro de 2021. Incluímos ECR, mulheres com sintomas de BH clinicamente comprovados, estudos que compararam mirabegrom a medicamentos antimuscarínicos e avaliaram a eficácia, segurança ou adesão. Coleta de Dados RevMan 5.4 foi usado para combinar os resultados entre os estudos. Derivamos razões de risco (RRs) e diferenças médias com intervalo de confiança (IC) de 95% usando um modelo meta-analítico de efeitos aleatórios. Cochrane Collaboration Tool e GRADE foi aplicado para risco de viés e qualidade da evidência. Síntese dos Dados Foram incluídos 14 estudos com um total de 10.774 pacientes. Menos eventos adversos totais foram relatados no grupo mirabegrom do que no grupo antimuscarínicos [RR: 0,93 (0,89-0,98)]. O risco de distúrbios do trato gastrointestinal e boca seca foram menores com mirabegrom [RR: 0,58 (0,48-0,68); 9.375 pacientes; RR: 0,44 (0,35-0,56), 9.375 pacientes, respectivamente]. Nenhuma diferença foi relatada entre mirabegrom e drogas antimuscarínicos para eficácia. A adesão ao tratamento foi de 87,7% em ambos os grupos [RR: 0,99 (0,98-1,00)]. Conclusão Mirabegrom e antimuscarínicos têm eficácia e taxas de adesão comparáveis, porém o mirabegrom apresentou menos eventos adversos totais e isolados.

Diagnosis and treatment of Acanthamoeba Keratitis: A scoping review demonstrating unfavorable outcomes.

Acanthamoeba spp. are pathogens that cause Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a serious cornea inflammation that can lead to gradual loss of vision, permanent blindness, and keratoplasty. The efficacy of AK treatment depends on the drug's ability to reach the target tissue by escaping the protective eye barrier. No single drug can eradicate the living forms of the amoeba and be non-toxic to the cornea tissue. The treatment aims to eradicate both forms of protozoan life but is hampered by the resistance of the cysts to the most available drugs, leading to prolonged infection and relapses. Drug therapy is currently performed mainly using diamidines and biguanides, as they are more effective against cysts. However, they are cytotoxic to corneal cells. Drugs are applied topically, and hourly. Over time, the frequency of administration decreases, but the treatment time varies from month to years. This study aims to obtain an up-to-date summary of the literature since 2010, allowing us to identify the trends and gaps and address future research involving new alternatives for treating AK. The results were divided into three phases, pre-treatment, empirical treatment, and the treatment after diagnosis confirmation. The drugs prescribed were stratified into antiamoebic, antibiotic, antifungal, antivirals, and steroids. It was possible to observe the transition in drug prescription during three different stages until the diagnosis was confirmed. There were more indications for antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral drugs in the early stages of the disease. The antiamoebic drugs were only prescribed after exhausting other treatments. This can be directly involved in developing complications and no responsiveness to medical treatment.

Avaliação de risco dos pés de pessoas com diabetes mellitus residentes de um bairro de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Prevalence and risk classification of feet with diabetic neuropathy mellitus in residents of a neighborhood of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Prevalencia y clasificación de riesgo de pies con neuropatía diabética mellitus en residentes de un barrio de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Introdução: O Diabetes Mellitus pode ocasionar inúmeras complicações crônicas ao longo do tempo. Dentre elas, destaca-se a neuropatia diabética que compreende um conjunto de doenças que atinge as fibras nervosas. Este estudo tem como objetivo descrever o grau de risco dos pés de pessoas com Diabetes Mellitus que utilizam insulina, residentes em um bairro da zona urbana de Pelotas, RS. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo descritivo. A coleta de dados ocorreu na zona norte da cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. A coleta de dados foi realizada na residência dos participantes, entre maio e junho de 2017, contou com a participação de 39 pessoas com pés com neuropatia por Diabetes Mellitus. Resultados: Os entrevistados tinham, predominantemente diabetes tipo 2, perfazendo 89,7%, sendo o tempo de diagnóstico, com o mínimo de 3 anos, até 40 anos de evolução da doença. Sobre a avaliação da neuropatia diabética, 43,6% apresentam dor ao caminhar. Dormência e perda de sensibilidade foi mencionado por 41%. Conclusão: Foi possível elencar o grau de risco para complicações nos pés de usuários com Diabetes Mellitus, esse achado demonstra a importância que as equipes de saúde têm na prevenção de doenças, assim como na promoção da saúde, evitando as ulcerações e posteriores, amputações.

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus can cause numerous chronic complications over time. Among them, diabetic neuropathy stands out, which comprises a set of diseases that affect the nerve fibers. This study aims to describe the degree of risk of the feet of people with Diabetes Mellitus who use insulin, living in a neighborhood in the urban area of Pelotas, RS. Materials and methods: This is a descriptive quantitative study. Data collection took place in the northern part of the city of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. Data collection was carried out at the participants' homes, between May and June 2017, with the participation of 39 people with feet with Diabetes Mellitus neuropathy. Results: Respondents had predominantly type 2 diabetes, accounting for 89.7%, with the time since diagnosis, with a minimum of 3 years, up to 40 years of disease evolution. Regarding the assessment of diabetic neuropathy, 43.6% present pain when walking. Numbness and loss of sensation was mentioned by 41%. Conclusions: It was possible to list the degree of risk for complications in the feet of users with Diabetes Mellitus, this finding demonstrates the importance that health teams have in preventing diseases, as well as in promoting health, avoiding ulcerations and subsequent amputations.

Introducción: La Diabetes Mellitus puede causar numerosas complicaciones crónicas con el tiempo. Entre ellas destaca la neuropatía diabética, que comprende un conjunto de enfermedades que afectan a las fibras nerviosas. Este estudio tiene como objetivo describir el grado de riesgo de los pies de personas con Diabetes Mellitus usuarias de insulina, residentes en un barrio del área urbana de Pelotas, RS. Materiales y Métodos: Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo descriptivo. La recolección de datos ocurrió en la zona norte de la ciudad de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. La recolección de datos se realizó en los domicilios de los participantes, entre mayo y junio de 2017, con la participación de 39 personas con pies con neuropatía Diabética Mellitus. Resultados: Los encuestados tenían predominantemente diabetes tipo 2, representando el 89,7%, con el tiempo desde el diagnóstico, con un mínimo de 3 años, hasta los 40 años de evolución de la enfermedad. En cuanto a la valoración de la neuropatía diabética, el 43,6% presenta dolor al caminar. El 41% mencionó entumecimiento y pérdida de sensibilidad. Conclusiones: Se pudo enumerar el grado de riesgo de complicaciones en los pies de los usuarios con Diabetes Mellitus, este hallazgo demuestra la importancia que tienen los equipos de salud en la prevención de enfermedades, así como en la promoción de la salud, evitando ulceraciones y posteriores amputaciones.

Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in Pelotas: design and baseline results / Uso serviços de serviços de urgência e emergência e Inteligência Artificial em Pelotas: protocolo e resultados iniciais

RESUMO Objetivo: To describe the initial baseline results of a population-based study, as well as a protocol in order to evaluate the performance of different machine learning algorithms with the objective of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in a representative sample of adults from the urban area of Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Methods: The study is entitled "Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)" (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Between September and December 2021, a baseline was carried out with participants. A follow-up was planned to be conducted after 12 months in order to assess the use of urgent and emergency services in the last year. Afterwards, machine learning algorithms will be tested to predict the use of urgent and emergency services over one year. Results: In total, 5,722 participants answered the survey, mostly females (66.8%), with an average age of 50.3 years. The mean number of household people was 2.6. Most of the sample has white skin color and incomplete elementary school or less. Around 30% of the sample has obesity, 14% diabetes, and 39% hypertension. Conclusion: The present paper presented a protocol describing the steps that were and will be taken to produce a model capable of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in one year among residents of Pelotas, in Rio Grande do Sul state.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os resultados iniciais da linha de base de um estudo de base populacional, bem como um protocolo para avaliar o desempenho de diferentes algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina, com o objetivo de predizer a demanda de serviços de urgência e emergência em uma amostra representativa de adultos da zona urbana de Pelotas, no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: O estudo intitula-se "Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)" (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Entre setembro e dezembro de 2021, foi realizada uma linha de base com os participantes. Está previsto um acompanhamento após 12 meses para avaliar a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no último ano. Em seguida, serão testados algoritmos de machine learning para predizer a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no período de um ano. Resultados: No total, 5.722 participantes responderam à pesquisa, a maioria do sexo feminino (66,8%), com idade média de 50,3 anos. O número médio de pessoas no domicílio foi de 2,6. A maioria da amostra tem cor da pele branca e ensino fundamental incompleto ou menos. Cerca de 30% da amostra estava com obesidade, 14% com diabetes e 39% eram hipertensos. Conclusão: O presente trabalho apresentou um protocolo descrevendo as etapas que foram e serão tomadas para a produção de um modelo capaz de prever a demanda por serviços de urgência e emergência em um ano entre moradores de Pelotas, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul.

Características contextuais e procura por serviços de saúde entre adolescentes brasileiros: Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde, 2019 / Contextual characteristics and demand for health services among Brazilian adolescents: Brazilian National Health Survey, 2019 / Características contextuales y demanda de servicios de salud entre adolescentes brasileños: Encuesta Nacional de Salud, 2019

Resumo: Os objetivos foram descrever a prevalência de procura por serviços de saúde entre adolescentes brasileiros e investigar sua associação com características contextuais do território. O estudo utilizou dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde de 2019, realizada com 43.774 indivíduos de 10 a 19 anos. A informação do adolescente foi obtida por meio de um morador proxy de 18 anos ou mais que respondia por si e por todos os moradores da casa. A regressão de Poisson foi utilizada para avaliar a procura por serviços de saúde de acordo com região geopolítica, situação censitária e tipo de município. Também foi avaliada a interação da variável "plano de saúde" nessas associações. Do total, 11,7% (IC95%: 11,1; 12,3) dos adolescentes procuraram serviços de saúde nas duas semanas anteriores à pesquisa. Maiores prevalências de procura foram observadas nas regiões Sudeste (RP = 1,32; IC95%: 1,15; 1,52) e Sul (RP = 1,31; IC95%: 1,13; 1,52) em comparação à Região Norte do país. O acesso a plano de saúde aumentou a busca pelos serviços por adolescentes residentes nas áreas rurais e nas capitais e municípios das Regiões Metropolitanas e/ou Regiões Integradas de Desenvolvimento. O estudo evidenciou baixa prevalência de procura por serviços de saúde entre adolescentes e desigualdades contextuais para a região geopolítica. Ter plano de saúde foi um marcador importante para entender as disparidades na situação censitária e no tipo de município.

Abstract: This study aimed to describe the prevalence of demand for health services among Brazilian adolescents and to investigate its association with contextual characteristics of the territory. Study with data from the Brazilian National Health Survey, conducted in 2019, including 43,774 individuals aged from 10 to 19 years. Adolescent's information was obtained through a proxy resident of 18 years or more who answered for all the residents of the household. Poisson regression was used to assess the demand for health services according to geopolitical region, economic status, and type of municipality. The interaction of the health insurance was also evaluated in these associations. Of the total, 11.7% (95%CI: 11.1; 12.3) of the adolescents sought health services in the two weeks prior to the survey. Greater figures of demand were observed in the Southeast (PR = 1.32; 95%CI: 1.15; 1.52) and South regions (PR = 1.31; 95%CI: 1.13; 1.52) compared to the Northern Region of Brazil. Having a health insurance increased the demand for services by adolescents living in rural areas and in capitals and the municipalities of the Metropolitan Areas and/or Integrated Development Regions. The study showed a low prevalence of demand for health services among adolescents and contextual inequalities for the geopolitical region. Having a health insurance was an important marker to understand the disparities in the economic status and in the type of municipality.

Resumen: El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar la prevalencia de la demanda de servicios de salud entre los adolescentes brasileños e investigar su asociación con las características contextuales del territorio. Estudio con datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud, realizada en 2019 con 43.774 individuos de entre 10 y 19 años de edad. La información del adolescente se obtuvo de un residente proxy de 18 años o más que era responsable de sí mismo y de todos los residentes de la casa. La regresión de Poisson se utilizó para evaluar la demanda de servicios de salud según la región geopolítica, la situación en el censo y el tipo de municipio. También se evaluó la interacción de la variable seguro médico en estas asociaciones. Del total, el 11,7% (IC95%: 11,1; 12,3) de los adolescentes buscaron servicios de salud en las dos semanas previas a la encuesta. Se observó mayor prevalencia de demanda en las regiones Sudeste (RP = 1,32; IC95%: 1,15; 1,52) y Sur (RP = 1,31; IC95%: 1,13; 1,52) en comparación con el Norte del país. Tener un seguro médico incrementó la búsqueda de servicios por parte de los adolescentes que viven en áreas rurales y en las capitales y municipios de de las Regiones Metropolitanas y/o Regiones de Desarrollo Integrado. El estudio apuntó a una baja prevalencia de demanda de servicios de salud entre los adolescentes y desigualdades contextuales según la región geopolítica. Tener un seguro médico fue un marcador importante para comprender las disparidades según la situación del censo y el tipo de municipio.

New Insights into the Mechanism of Immune-Mediated Tissue Injury in Yellow Fever: The Role of Immunopathological and Endothelial Alterations in the Human Lung Parenchyma.

Yellow fever (YF) may cause lesions in different organs. There are no studies regarding the in situ immune response in the human lung and investigating immunopathological aspects in fatal cases can help to better understand the evolution of the infection. Lung tissue samples were collected from 10 fatal cases of human yellow fever and three flavivirus-negative controls who died of other causes and whose lung parenchymal architecture was preserved. In YFV-positive fatal cases, the main histopathological changes included the massive presence of diffuse alveolar inflammatory infiltrate, in addition to congestion and severe hemorrhage. The immunohistochemical analysis of tissues in the lung parenchyma showed significantly higher expression of E-selectin, P-selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1 in addition to cytokines such as IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, TNF- α, IFN-γ and TGF-ß compared to the negative control. The increase in immunoglobulins ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 results in strengthening of tissue transmigration signaling. E-selectin and P-selectin actively participate in this process of cell migration and formation of the inflammatory infiltrate. IFN-γ and TNF-α participate in the process of cell injury and viral clearance. The cytokines IL-4 and TGF-ß, acting in synergism, participate in the process of tissue regeneration and breakdown. The anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10 and IL-13 also act in the reduction of inflammation and tissue repair. Our study indicates that the activation of the endothelium aggravates the inflammatory response by inducing the expression of adhesion molecules and cytokines that contribute to the rolling, recruitment, migration and eliciting of the inflammatory process in the lung parenchyma, contributing to the fatal outcome of the disease.

Identifying multimorbidity clusters among Brazilian older adults using network analysis: Findings and perspectives.

In aging populations, multimorbidity (MM) is a significant challenge for health systems, however there are scarce evidence available in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, particularly in Brazil. A national cross-sectional study was conducted with 11,177 Brazilian older adults to evaluate the occurrence of MM and related clusters in Brazilians aged ≥ 60 years old. MM was assessed by a list of 16 physical and mental morbidities and it was defined considering ≥ 2 morbidities. The frequencies of MM and its associated factors were analyzed. After this initial approach, a network analysis was performed to verify the occurrence of clusters of MM and the network of interactions between coexisting morbidities. The occurrence of MM was 58.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 57.0-60.2). Hypertension (50.6%) was the most frequent morbidity and it was present all combinations of morbidities. Network analysis has demonstrated 4 MM clusters: 1) cardiometabolic; 2) respiratory + cancer; 3) musculoskeletal; and 4) a mixed mental illness + other diseases. Depression was the most central morbidity in the model according to nodes' centrality measures (strength, closeness, and betweenness) followed by heart disease, and low back pain. Similarity in male and female networks was observed with a conformation of four clusters of MM and cancer as an isolated morbidity. The prevalence of MM in the older Brazilians was high, especially in female sex and persons living in the South region of Brazil. Use of network analysis could be an important tool for identifying MM clusters and address the appropriate health care, research, and medical education for older adults in Brazil.

Efeito da incontinência urinária na autopercepção negativa da saúde e depressão em idosos: uma coorte de base populacional / Effect of urinary incontinence on negative self-perception of health and depression in elderly adults: a population-based cohort

Resumo Objetivou-se medir a prevalência de autopercepção negativa da saúde e sintomas depressivos em idosos segundo a presença de incontinência urinária, após nove anos de acompanhamento. Trata-se de um estudo de coorte prospectivo de base populacional intitulado Saúde do Idoso Gaúcho de Bagé, no Rio Grande do Sul. Foram entrevistados 1.593 idosos no estudo de linha de base (2008) e 735 entre setembro de 2016 e agosto de 2017. A exposição "incontinência urinária (IU)" foi avaliada no estudo de linha de base e os desfechos "autopercepção negativa da saúde" e "sintomas depressivos" em 2016/17. A razão de odds e o intervalo de confiança de 95% foram calculados com regressão logística bruta e ajustada para variáveis demográficas, sociais, comportamentais e de condições de saúde. A prevalência de IU foi 20,7% em 2008 e 24,5% em 2016/17; a incidência foi de 19,8%, sendo 23,8% entre as mulheres e 14,6% entre os homens (p = 0,009). Idosos com IU no estudo de linha de base apresentaram chances 4,0 (IC95%:1,8-8,8) e 3,4 (IC95%:1,8-6,2) vezes maior de desenvolver autopercepção negativa da saúde e sintomas depressivos, respectivamente, após nove anos de acompanhamento, comparados àqueles sem IU. Os resultados evidenciam maior chance de problemas mentais entre idosos com IU.

Abstract The scope of this study was to measure the prevalence of negative self-perceived health and depressive symptoms in elderly adults according to the presence of urinary incontinence, after a follow-up of nine years. This is a prospective population-based cohort study entitled Bagé Cohort Study of Aging, from Rio Grande do Sul. A total of 1,593 elderly adults were interviewed in the baseline study (2008) and 735 between September 2016 and August 2017. The "urinary incontinence (UI)" exposure was assessed in the baseline study and the outcomes "negative self-perceived health" and "depressive symptoms" in 2016/17. The odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated by Logistic Regression and adjusted for demographic, social, behavioral and health conditions. The prevalence of UI was 20.7% in 2008 and 24.5% in 2016/17; the incidence was 19.8%, being 23.8% among women and 14.6% among men (p = 0.009). Elderly adults with UI at the baseline study had a 4.0 (CI95%: 1.8-8.8) and a 3.4 (CI95%: 1.8-6.2) greater chance to develop negative self-perception of health and depressive symptoms, respectively, after nine years of follow-up, compared to those without UI. The results show a greater probability of mental problems among elderly adults with UI.

Incidence of multimorbidity and associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: a cohort study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, access to healthcare services may have become difficult, which may have led to an increase in chronic diseases and multimorbidity. OBJECTIVES: To assess the incidence of multimorbidity and its associated factors among adults living in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cohort study conducted in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: We included data from the two waves of the Prospective Study About Mental and Physical Health (PAMPA). Data were collected via online questionnaires between June and July 2020 (wave 1) and between December 2020 and January 2021 (wave 2). Multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more diagnosed medical conditions. RESULTS: In total, 516 individuals were included, among whom 27.1% (95% confidence interval, CI: 23.5-31.1) developed multimorbidity from wave 1 to 2. In adjusted regression models, female sex (hazard ratio, HR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.19-3.24), middle-aged adults (31-59 years) (HR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.18-2.70) and older adults (60 or over) (HR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.25-4.61) showed higher risk of multimorbidity. Back pain (19.4%), high cholesterol (13.3%) and depression (12.2%) were the medical conditions with the highest proportions reported by the participants during wave 2. CONCLUSION: The incidence of multimorbidity during a six-month period during the COVID-19 pandemic was 27.1% in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Connexin Expression in Pituitary Adenomas and the Effects of Overexpression of Connexin 43 in Pituitary Tumor Cell Lines.

Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is considered a key mechanism in the regulation of tissue homeostasis. GJIC structures are organized in two transmembrane channels, with each channel formed by connexins (Cxs). GJIC and Cxs expression alterations are related to the process of tumorigenesis in different cell types. Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) represent 15-20% of intracranial neoplasms, and usually display benign behavior. Nevertheless, some may have aggressive behavior, invading adjacent tissues, and featuring a high proliferation rate. We aimed to assess the expression and relevance of GJIC and Cxs proteins in PitNETs. We evaluated the mRNA expression levels of Cx26, 32, and 43, and the protein expression of Cx43 in a series of PitNETs. In addition, we overexpressed Cx43 in pituitary tumor cell lines. At the mRNA level, we observed variable expression of all the connexins in the tumor samples. Cx43 protein expression was absent in most of the pituitary tumor samples that were studied. Moreover, in vitro studies revealed that the overexpression of Cx43 decreases cell growth and induces apoptosis in pituitary tumor cell lines. Our results indicate that the downregulation of Cx43 protein might be involved in the tumorigenesis of most pituitary adenomas and have a potential therapeutic value for pituitary tumor therapy.

Socioeconomic inequalities in the access to health services: a population-based study in Southern Brazil.

This article aims to measure socioeconomic inequalities regarding access to health services, contact with health professionals, and specific health interventions. This was a cross-sectional population-based study with individuals aged 18 years or older, living in the city of Rio Grande. The outcomes were the following: Family Health Strategy (FHS) coverage; having a health insurance plan; receiving a visit of a community health worker; medical consultation; dental consultation; dietary counseling; having a class with a physical education professional; flu vaccination; mammography, cytopathological and prostate exams. Relative and absolute measures were used to assess inequalities in the distribution of the outcomes. There was a response rate of 91% (1,300 adults were interviewed). Coverage indicators ranged from 16.1%, for having a class with a physical education professional, to 80.0% for medical consultation. FHS coverage and visit of a community health agent presented higher proportions among the poorest while outcomes regarding contact with health professionals, screening exams and flu vaccine were more prevalent among richest group. We observed low coverage levels of access to health services and professionals in addition to marked socioeconomic inequalities.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on compulsory notification of meningitis during the first wave of the pandemic in Brazil: an ecological study using P-score

Abstract BACKGROUND: Meningitis is listed as one of the diseases requiring compulsory notification in Brazil. It can affect all age groups and also has no seasonality. Cases can be recorded in all months of the year and in all states of Brazil. Despite its importance, the obligation of immediate notification may have been compromised by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on compulsory notifications of meningitis in Brazil and its states during the first wave of the pandemic. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was an ecological study involving all confirmed cases of meningitis in Brazil, in its regions and in its states. METHODS: Data for the months from 2015 to 2020 were obtained from the database of the Notifiable Diseases Information System (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, SINAN), in the Department of Informatics of the National Health System (Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde, DATASUS). The P-score was used to obtain the percentage change in the numbers of cases reported in 2020. RESULTS: A 45.7% reduction in notifications of meningitis in Brazil was observed. Regarding the regions and the states, with the exception of Roraima, all of them showed a negative P-score, with decreasing curves each month. CONCLUSION: The pandemic caused a negative impact on meningitis notifications in Brazil.

HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis: prevalence and serodiscordance between women and their partners / HIV, hepatite B, hepatite C e sífilis: prevalência e sorodiscordância entre mulheres e seus companheiros

Introduction: The prevention of vertical transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is the object of research by several authors, who reinforce the importance of knowing the serological status of a woman's sexual partner. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and serodiscordance of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis infections among women admitted to a maternity hospital in southern Brazil and their partners. Methods: 350 women and their partners were interviewed in a service-based cross-sectional study conducted from August 16 to November 23, 2018. Results: 4.0% of the women and 4.3% of the men had one of the infections studied. Among women, 2.0% already knew they were HIV positive, 2.0% had a positive rapid test for syphilis and there was no positive result for hepatitis B or C. A total of 299 (85.4%) partners were located. Of these, 293 (98.0%) agreed to answer the study questionnaire. Of all men interviewed, 281 (95.9%) agreed to undergo an rapid test. Among men, 1.4% already knew they were HIV positive and 0.4% had chronic hepatitis B disease. There was a similar percentage of men with a positive rapid test for syphilis and hepatitis C (1.4%). Regarding couples, 6.8% had some positive test. Most of the positive test subjects were in a serodiscordant relationship (16 serodiscordant couples and 3 positive concordant couples). Conclusion: These results reinforce the importance of testing men to prevent the infection of a negative partner and the vertical transmission of sexually transmitted infections. The high acceptance, by men, to undergo an rapid test at the time of the woman's hospitalization demonstrated the viability of this strategy in the maternity ward.

Introdução: A prevenção da transmissão vertical de doenças sexualmente transmissíveis é objeto de pesquisa de diversos autores, os quais reforçam a importância do status sorológico do parceiro sexual da mulher. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência e a sorodiscordância de infecções por HIV, hepatite B, hepatite C e sífilis em mulheres internadas em uma maternidade localizada no Sul do Brasil e seus parceiros. Métodos: Foram entrevistadas 350 mulheres e seus parceiros em um estudo transversal de base de serviço realizado de 16 de agosto a 23 de novembro de 2018. Resultados: Do grupo consultado, 4,0% das mulheres e 4,3% dos homens apresentaram alguma das infecções estudadas. Entre as mulheres, 2% já sabiam ser HIV positivas e 2% apresentaram teste rápido positivo para sífilis. Para hepatite B ou C, não se registrou nenhum resultado positivo. Foram localizados 299 (85,4%) companheiros, destes, 293 (98,0%) aceitaram responder ao questionário do estudo. Do total de homens entrevistados, 281 (95,9%) concordaram em se submeter aos testes rápidos, entre eles, 1,4% já sabiam ser HIV positivos, 0,4% eram portadores crônicos de hepatite B e 1,4% apresentaram testes rápidos positivos para sífilis e hepatite C. Em relação aos casais, 6,8% possuíam algum teste positivo, a maioria (16) era formada de indivíduos sorodiscordantes e 3 de concordantes positivos. Conclusão: Esses resultados reforçam a importância da testagem masculina com a intenção de evitar a infecção do cônjuge negativo e a transmissão vertical das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis. A alta aceitação masculina de se submeter ao teste rápido durante a internação da mulher demonstrou a viabilidade dessa estratégia de testagem na maternidade.

Capacidade institucional para o cuidado às pessoas com doenças crônicas na atenção primária à saúde / Institutional capacity for the care of people with chronic diseases in primary health care

Objetivo: investigar a capacidade institucional para o cuidado às pessoas com doenças crônicas não transmissíveis na atenção primária à saúde. Método: estudo transversal, quantitativo e exploratório. A coleta de dados utilizou o questionário, traduzido e adaptado para o Brasil, Assessment of Chronic Illness Care. A coleta de dados aconteceu entre dezembro de 2017 a junho de 2018. O instrumento foi respondido por 159 profissionais que atuavam em 49 unidades de atenção primária à saúde. Resultados: a capacidade para o cuidado às pessoas com doenças crônicas foi classificada como básica. Os componentes com melhor e pior nota atribuída foram, desenho do sistema de prestação de serviços e suporte à decisão clínica, respectivamente. Conclusão: os resultados deste estudo apontaram que é necessário investir, prioritariamente, em: feedback do especialista na contrarreferência, parcerias com a comunidade, especialmente nas unidades que atuam no modelo tradicional e capacitação dos profissionais para apoio ao autocuidado.

Objective: to investigate the institutional capacity for the care of people with chronic non-communicable diseases in primary health care. Method: cross-sectional, quantitative and exploratory study. Data collection used the questionnaire, translated and adapted for Brazil, Assessment of Chronic Illness Care. Data collection took place between December 2017 and June 2018. 159 professionals working in 49 primary health care units responded to the instrument. Results: the ability to care for people with chronic diseases was classified as basic. The components with the best and worst scores were the design of the service delivery system and clinical decision support, respectively. Conclusion: the results of this study showed that it is necessary to invest primarily in expert feedback on counter-reference, partnerships with the community, especially in units that work in the traditional model, and training of professionals to support self-care.

Multimorbidity and simultaneity of health risk factors, from adolescence to early adulthood: 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort.

The co-occurrence of two or more diseases is called multimorbidity, and the occurrence of two or more risk factors is called simultaneity of risk factors. Multimorbidity and simultaneity of risk factors are not widely understood in adolescence and early adulthood. This paper aims to describe how multimorbidity and simultaneity of risk factors are distributed throughout adolescence and early adulthood, considering demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, among the 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort members. This study was carried out using data from the 11, 15, 18, and 22y of the 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort, Brazil (n = 5249). A self-reported questionnaire assessed allergies, asthma/bronchitis/wheezing, diabetes, vision problems, hypertension, common mental disorders, other mental disorders, physical inactivity, sedentary behaviour, insufficient sleep time, smoking, alcohol abuse behaviour, and illicit drugs. Glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, weight, and height were objectively collected. The prevalence of multimorbidity was 26.3%, 31.3%, 37.9%, and 44.4% at 11, 15, 18, and 22y, respectively. Around 70% of all ages presented simultaneity of risk factors. Women presented a higher prevalence of simultaneity of risk factors, and the multimorbidity gradually increased from 11 to 22y. The presence of both multimorbidity and simultaneity of risk factors was 19.7% at 11 and 35.4% at 22y. Less than 2% have no morbidity and no risk factors at each age assessed. This study highlighted the early emergence and accelerated growth of diseases and risk factors in a young population, especially their co-occurrence.