MR1 blockade drives differential impact on integrative signatures based on circuits of circulating immune cells and soluble mediators in visceral leishmaniasis.

Introduction: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an important tropical and neglected disease and represents a serious global health problem. The initial interaction between the phagocytes and the parasite is crucial to determine the pathogen's capacity to initiate infection and it shapes the subsequent immune response that will develop. While type-1 T-cells induce IL-6, IL-1ß, TNF-α, and IL-12 production by monocytes/macrophages to fight the infection, type-2 T-cells are associated with a regulatory phenotype (IL-10 and TGF-ß) and successful infection establishment. Recently, our group demonstrated the role of an important Th1/Th17 T-cell population, the mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, in VL. MAIT cells can respond to L. infantum by producing TNF-α and IFN-γ upon MR1-dependent activation. Objective and methods: Here, we describe the impact of the MR1-blockage on L. infantum internalization on the functional profile of circulating neutrophils and monocytes as well as the impact of the MR1-blockage on the soluble mediator signatures of in vitro whole blood cultures. Results: Overall, our data showed that VL patients presents higher percentage of activated neutrophils than asymptomatic and non-infected controls. In addition, MR1 blockade led to lower TNF-α and TGF-ß production by non-activated neutrophils from asymptomatic individuals. Moreover, TNF-α and IL-10 production by monocytes was higher in VL patients. In the analysis of soluble mediators produced in vitro, MR1-blockade induced a decrease of IFN-γ and an increase of IL-10, IL-27 and IL-33 in the cell cultures of AS group, a cytokine pattern associated with type 2 deleterious response. Discussion and conclusion: These data corroborate the hypothesis that MR1-restricted responses are associated to a protective role during Leishmania infection.

Reemergence of Oropouche virus between 2023 and 2024 in Brazil.

Background: Oropouche virus (OROV; species Orthobunyavirus oropoucheense) is an arthropod-borne virus that has caused outbreaks of Oropouche fever in Central and South America since the 1950s. This study investigates virological factors contributing to the reemergence of Oropouche fever in Brazil between 2023 and 2024. Methods: In this study, we combined OROV genomic, molecular, and serological data from Brazil from 1 January 2015 to 29 June 2024, along with in vitro and in vivo characterization. Molecular screening data included 93 patients with febrile illness between January 2023 and February 2024 from the Amazonas State. Genomic data comprised two genomic OROV sequences from patients. Serological data were obtained from neutralizing antibody tests comparing the prototype OROV strain BeAn 19991 and the 2024 epidemic strain. Epidemiological data included aggregated cases reported to the Brazilian Ministry of Health from 1 January 2014 to 29 June 2024. Findings: In 2024, autochthonous OROV infections were detected in previously non-endemic areas across all five Brazilian regions. Cases were reported in 19 of 27 federal units, with 83.2% (6,895 of 8,284) of infections in Northern Brazil and a nearly 200-fold increase in incidence compared to reported cases over the last decade. We detected OROV RNA in 10.8% (10 of 93) of patients with febrile illness between December 2023 and May 2024 in Amazonas. We demonstrate that the 2023-2024 epidemic was caused by a novel OROV reassortant that replicated approximately 100-fold higher titers in mammalian cells compared to the prototype strain. The 2023-2024 OROV reassortant displayed plaques earlier than the prototype, produced 1.7 times more plaques, and plaque sizes were 2.5 larger compared to the prototype. Furthermore, serum collected in 2016 from previously OROV-infected individuals showed at least a 32-fold reduction in neutralizing capacity against the reassortment strain compared to the prototype. Interpretation: These findings provide a comprehensive assessment of Oropouche fever in Brazil and contribute to a better understanding of the 2023-2024 OROV reemergence. The recent increased incidence may be related to a higher replication efficiency of a new reassortant virus that also evades previous immunity.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Elective and Emergency Surgeries, and Postoperative Mortality in a Brazilian Metropolitan Area: A Time-Series Cohort Study.

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic posed a worldwide challenge, leading to radical changes in surgical services. The primary objective of the study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 on elective and emergency surgeries in a Brazilian metropolitan area. The secondary objective was to compare the postoperative hospital mortality before and during the pandemic. Patients and Methods: Time-series cohort study including data of all patients admitted for elective or emergency surgery at the hospitals in the Public Health System of Federal District, Brazil, between March 2018 and February 2022, using data extracted from the Hospital Information System of Brazilian Ministry of Health (SIH/DATASUS) on September 30, 2022. A causal impact analysis was used to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on elective and emergency surgeries and hospital mortality. Results: There were 174,473 surgeries during the study period. There was a reduction in overall (absolute effect per week: -227.5; 95% CI: -307.0 to -149.0), elective (absolute effect per week: -170.9; 95% CI: -232.8 to -112.0), and emergency (absolute effect per week: -57.7; 95% CI: -87.5 to -27.7) surgeries during the COVID-19 period. Comparing the surgeries performed before and after the COVID-19 onset, there was an increase in emergency surgeries (53.0% vs 68.8%, P < 0.001) and no significant hospital length of stay (P = 0.112). The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on postoperative hospital mortality was not statistically significant (absolute effect per week: 2.1, 95% CI: -0.01 to 4.2). Conclusion: Our study showed a reduction in elective and emergency surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly due to disruptions in surgical services. These findings highlight that it is crucial to implement effective strategies to prevent the accumulation of surgical waiting lists in times of crisis and improve outcomes for surgical patients.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Births, Vaginal Deliveries, Cesarian Sections, and Maternal Mortality in a Brazilian Metropolitan Area: A Time-Series Cohort Study.

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic posed a worldwide challenge, leading to radical changes in healthcare. The primary objective of the study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on birth, vaginal delivery, and cesarian section (c-section) rates. The secondary objective was to compare the maternal mortality before and after the pandemic. Patients and Methods: Time-series cohort study including data of all women admitted for childbirth (vaginal delivery or c-section) at the maternities in the Public Health System of Federal District, Brazil, between March 2018 and February 2022, using data extracted from the Hospital Information System of Brazilian Ministry of Health (SIH/DATASUS) on September 30, 2022. Causal impact analysis was used to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on birth, vaginal delivery, and c-section using the CausalImpact R package, and a propensity score matching was used to evaluate the effect on maternal mortality rate using the Easy R (EZR) software. Results: There were 150,617 births, and considering total births, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic was not statistically significant (absolute effect per week: 5.5, 95% CI: -24.0-33.4). However, there was an increase in c-sections after COVID-19 (absolute effect per week: 18.1; 95% CI: 11.9-23.9). After propensity score matching, the COVID-19 period was associated with increased maternal mortality (OR: 3.22, 95% CI: 1.53-6.81). The e-value of the adjusted OR for the association between the post-COVID-19 period and maternal mortality was 5.89, with a 95% CI: 2.43, suggesting that unmeasured confounders were unlikely to explain the entirety of the effect. Conclusion: Our study revealed a rise in c-sections and maternal mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly due to disruptions in maternal care. These findings highlight that implementing effective strategies to protect maternal health in times of crisis and improve outcomes for mothers and newborns is crucial.

Nonlinear analysis by phase space reconstruction of healthy elderly voices. / Análise não linear pela reconstrução do espaço de fase de vozes saudáveis de idosos.

PURPOSE: To compare the results of the non-linear acoustic analysis of elderly male and female voices, speakers of Brazilian Portuguese. METHODS: Recordings of 14 men and 15 women were used. The voices were consensually judged to be vocally healthy by three trained speech therapists. The non-linear acoustic analysis was performed by the Phase Space Reconstruction (PSR) analysis using the Voice Analysis program. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed in the parameter irregularity (p = 0.001) and spacing (p = 0.005), with worse results for the male group. While 93% of male voices presented degrees 2 or 3 of irregularity, these degrees were observed in 53% of female voices. In 78.6% of male voices, medium to large spacing was observed, a fact observed only in 26.7% of women. CONCLUSION: The results of the non-linear analysis, through the Phase Space Reconstruction, using the CIS Protocol, in the voices of the elderly, showed the best result in terms of the number of curves (four or more). Regarding the irregularity of the tracing, in men, the majority presented grades 2 and 3 and in women, half presented grade 1. Regarding the spacing, 78.6% of the male voices had medium to large spacing, a fact observed only in 26.7% of women.There was a difference between the sexes in the vocal findings of the elderly by the CIS protocol with the PSR, pointing out worse results irregularity and spacing in the male population, which suggests greater vocal aperiodicity in elderly men.

OBJETIVO: Verificar medidas acústicas das vozes de idosos pela análise não linear e realizar a comparação entre os sexos. MÉTODO: Participaram 29 idosos, falantes do Português Brasileiro, vocalmente saudáveis: 14 homens e 15 mulheres. Todas as vozes foram julgadas como vocalmente saudáveis por três fonoaudiólogas treinadas, por meio de avaliação perceptivo-auditiva. A análise acústica não linear foi realizada pela análise da Reconstrução de Espaço de Fase utilizando o programa Análise de Voz. RESULTADOS: Foi observado diferença significativa no parâmetro irregularidade (p=0,001) e espaçamento (p=0,005) entre os sexos, com resultados piores no grupo masculino. Enquanto 93% das vozes masculinas apresentaram graus 2 ou 3 de irregularidade, estes graus foram observados em 53% das vozes femininas. Em 78,6% das vozes masculinas foi observado espaçamento de médio a grande, fato observado somente em 26,7% das mulheres. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados da análise não linear, por meio da REF, com a utilização do protocolo CIE, em vozes de idosos, mostraram o melhor resultado quanto ao número de curvas (quatro ou mais). Em relação à irregularidade do traçado, nos homens, a maioria apresentou graus 2 e 3 e nas mulheres, a metade apresentou grau 1. Relativo ao espaçamento, 78,6% das vozes masculinas foi observado espaçamento de médio a grande, fato observado somente em 26,7% das mulheres. Houve diferença entre os sexos nos achados vocais de idosos pelo protocolo CIE com a análise de Reconstrução de Espaço de Fase, apontado piores resultados na irregularidade e espaçamento na população masculina, o que sugere maior aperiodicidade vocal em homens idosos.

Effects of Chloramine T on zebrafish embryos malformations associated with cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity.

Chloramine T, a sodium p-toluene sulfonchloramide, is known to possess a wide spectrum of biocidal activity and is employed as a disinfectant in fish farms to treat bacterial infections. Although Chloramine T may effectively combat pathogens, the sublethal and lethal effects and changes in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity remain poorly elucidated using Danio rerio (zebrafish) embryos. Zebrafish is considered a model organism for toxicant screening research and exhibits mammalian-like physiological responses when exposed to environmental pollutants. The aim of this study was to (1) determine LC50 of Chloramine T after 96 hr exposure, (2) verify disinfectant effects on developmental morphology, and (3) evaluate the disinfectant effects on AChE activity in zebrafish embryos. Chloramine T exposure was performed using 16, 32, 64, 128, or 256 mg/L concentrations. The mortality LC50 values were 143.05 ± 3.11 and 130.97 ± 7.4 mg/L at 24 and 96 hr, respectively. Data demonstrated delayed hatching, reduced heartbeats, cardiac edema, and equilibrium disruption of hatched larvae throughout embryonic development. In addition, Chloramine T inhibited AChE activity at 64 or 128 mg/L after 96 hr treatment, corroborating the sub-lethality results observed in zebrafish embryo development and demonstrating an equilibrium disruption in zebrafish larvae.

Exploiting optical coherence tomography to evaluate wear in spiral dental polishing systems.

This study aimed to evaluate the behavior of spiral polishing systems in restorative materials through optical coherence tomography (OCT). Performance of spiral polishers specific to resin and ceramics were evaluated. The surface roughness of restorative materials was measured, and images of the polishers were acquired by OCT and stereomicroscope. Surface roughness was reduced in ceramic and glass-ceramic composite polished with a system specific to resin (p<0.01). Surface area variation was observed on all polishers, except for the medium-grit polisher tested in ceramic (p<0.05). Similarity between images obtained through OCT and stereomicroscopy presented a Kappa inter- and intra-observer of 0.94 and 0.96, respectively. Then, OCT was able to evaluate wear areas in spiral polishers.

Análise não linear pela reconstrução do espaço de fase de vozes saudáveis de idosos / Nonlinear analysis by phase space reconstruction of healthy elderly voices

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar medidas acústicas das vozes de idosos pela análise não linear e realizar a comparação entre os sexos. Método Participaram 29 idosos, falantes do Português Brasileiro, vocalmente saudáveis: 14 homens e 15 mulheres. Todas as vozes foram julgadas como vocalmente saudáveis por três fonoaudiólogas treinadas, por meio de avaliação perceptivo-auditiva. A análise acústica não linear foi realizada pela análise da Reconstrução de Espaço de Fase utilizando o programa Análise de Voz. Resultados Foi observado diferença significativa no parâmetro irregularidade (p=0,001) e espaçamento (p=0,005) entre os sexos, com resultados piores no grupo masculino. Enquanto 93% das vozes masculinas apresentaram graus 2 ou 3 de irregularidade, estes graus foram observados em 53% das vozes femininas. Em 78,6% das vozes masculinas foi observado espaçamento de médio a grande, fato observado somente em 26,7% das mulheres. Conclusão Os resultados da análise não linear, por meio da REF, com a utilização do protocolo CIE, em vozes de idosos, mostraram o melhor resultado quanto ao número de curvas (quatro ou mais). Em relação à irregularidade do traçado, nos homens, a maioria apresentou graus 2 e 3 e nas mulheres, a metade apresentou grau 1. Relativo ao espaçamento, 78,6% das vozes masculinas foi observado espaçamento de médio a grande, fato observado somente em 26,7% das mulheres. Houve diferença entre os sexos nos achados vocais de idosos pelo protocolo CIE com a análise de Reconstrução de Espaço de Fase, apontado piores resultados na irregularidade e espaçamento na população masculina, o que sugere maior aperiodicidade vocal em homens idosos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To compare the results of the non-linear acoustic analysis of elderly male and female voices, speakers of Brazilian Portuguese. Methods Recordings of 14 men and 15 women were used. The voices were consensually judged to be vocally healthy by three trained speech therapists. The non-linear acoustic analysis was performed by the Phase Space Reconstruction (PSR) analysis using the Voice Analysis program. Results A significant difference was observed in the parameter irregularity (p = 0.001) and spacing (p = 0.005), with worse results for the male group. While 93% of male voices presented degrees 2 or 3 of irregularity, these degrees were observed in 53% of female voices. In 78.6% of male voices, medium to large spacing was observed, a fact observed only in 26.7% of women. Conclusion The results of the non-linear analysis, through the Phase Space Reconstruction, using the CIS Protocol, in the voices of the elderly, showed the best result in terms of the number of curves (four or more). Regarding the irregularity of the tracing, in men, the majority presented grades 2 and 3 and in women, half presented grade 1. Regarding the spacing, 78.6% of the male voices had medium to large spacing, a fact observed only in 26.7% of women.There was a difference between the sexes in the vocal findings of the elderly by the CIS protocol with the PSR, pointing out worse results irregularity and spacing in the male population, which suggests greater vocal aperiodicity in elderly men.

Qualidade de vida de um grupo de elite da polícia militarno período pandêmico / Quality of life of an elite group of the military police in the pandemic period / Calidad de vida de un grupo élite de la policía militar en el período de pandemia

Objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida de um grupo de elite da polícia militar no período pandêmico. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal e quantitativo, realizado em outubroa dezembro de 2020, com policiais militares da cidade de Anápolis, Goiás. Utilizou-se dois instrumentos, um para levantamento de dados sociodemográficos e outro sobre avaliação da qualidade de vida(WHOQOL-Bref). Calculou-se a média dos escores do WHOQOL-Bref conforme modelo estatístico disponibilizado pelo Grupo WHOQOL. Resultados: entre 55 policiais participantes, prevaleceu o sexo masculino (96,4%) e faixa etária de 30 a 39 anos (41,8%). Os policiais avaliaram a qualidade de vidacomo boa (58,2%) ou muito boa (36,4%). Informaram estarem satisfeitos (56,4%) ou muito satisfeitos (29,1%). O maior escore foi para o domínio relações sociais (79,37) e o menor para o meio ambiente (71,93). Conclusão:os policiais militares avaliados consideram a qualidade de vida boa ou muito boa,e encontram-se satisfeitos com a saúde. Há, no entanto, fragilidades encontradas na qualidade de vida.

Objective: to evaluate the quality of life of an elite group of the military police during the pandemic period. Method: descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative study, carried out from October to December 2020, with military police officers from the city of Anápolis, Goiás. Two instruments were used, one to collect sociodemographic data and the otherto assess quality of life (WHOQOL-Bref). The mean of the WHOQOL-Bref scores was calculated according to the statistical model provided by the WHOQOL Group. Results: among 55 participating police officers, males prevailed (96.4%) and aged between 30 and 39years (41.8%). Police officers rated quality of life as good (58.2%) or very good (36.4%). They reported being satisfied (56.4%) or very satisfied (29.1%). The highest score was for the social relations domain (79.37) and the lowest for the environment (71.93). Conclusion: the evaluated military police consider their quality of life to be good or very good and are satisfied with their health. There are, however, weaknesses found in the quality of life.

Objetivo: evaluar la calidad de vida de un grupo élite de la policía militar durante el período de pandemia. Método: estudio descriptivo, transversal y cuantitativo, realizado de octubre a diciembre de 2020, con policías militares de la ciudadde Anápolis, Goiás. Se utilizaron dos instrumentos, uno para la encuesta de datos sociodemográficos y otro para la evaluación de la calidad de vida (WHOQOL-Bref). Se calculó la media de puntuaciones del WHOQOL-Bref según el modelo estadístico disponible en el Grupo WHOQOL. Resultados: entre los 55 policías participantes, prevaleció el sexo masculino (96,4%) y con edad entre 30 y 39 años (41,8%). Los policías calificaron la calidad de vida como buena (58,2%) o muy buena (36,4%). Informaron estar satisfechos(56,4%) o muy satisfechos (29,1%). La puntuación más alta fue para el dominio de relaciones sociales (79,37) y la más baja para el medio ambiente (71,93). Conclusión: los policías militares evaluados consideran buena o muy buena su calidad de vida y estánsatisfechos con su salud. Hay, sin embargo, debilidades encontradas en la calidad de vida.

Effect of relative humidity on the quality and safety of peeled almond kernels (Prunus dulcis Mill.) during simulated maritime transport/storage.

Long-term transport and storage of peeled almonds under unsuitable conditions may cause the product's rejection. To get knowledge in this topic, peeled almonds were stored at 25°C and 60, 70, and 80% relative humidity (RH). The maintenance of high RH (80%) caused some visual defects after 4 months. Even though the 60, 70, and 80% RH did not clearly affect the production of primary and secondary products formed in the lipid oxidation during the 6 months of storage, sometimes an increase in the values of the specific extinction at the wavelength of 268 nm (K268 ) was observed at 80% RH, suggesting the occurrence to some extent of secondary oxidation. Concerning microbial counts, the almonds stored at 60 and 70% RH presented a satisfactory microbial quality until 6 months; however, at 80% RH, the mold counts were higher than the reference values after 2 months. Several mycotoxins were detected at low levels, including aflatoxins B1 and G1, although some showed higher amounts at 80% RH. In general, it is recommended that almond producers and industrials should consider the use of low RH (< 80%) for maritime transport and long-term storage of almond kernels. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: High levels of relative humidity during storage/transport of almond kernels favor fungal growth, mycotoxin production, and secondary oxidation (rancidity). It is recommended to keep the almond kernels under low RH (< 80%) in maritime transport and long storage, especially in tropical countries.

Temporal analysis of environmental quality of Ponta Negra beach (Natal-RN) related to coastal erosion: what has changed in 10 years?

Ponta Negra beach is one of the main tourist destinations in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil), which is used by many tourists. This study aimed to perform a temporal analysis of the environmental quality of the beach related to coastal erosion, considering environmental and anthropic parameters at two different times, 10 years apart. The total length of the beach (3 km) was subdivided into 10 sections of approximately 300 m numbered 1-10, from south to north. Eight parameters were assessed based on an attribute scale ranging from the worst to the best possible quality (1-4) found in each section. The sum of the parameters was used to determine the final score. To determine the level of environmental quality, four conditions were considered (excellent, good, regular, and bad). Compared with the first sampling period, the results indicated that 50% of the beach showed reduction in environmental quality. The "excellent" condition, obtained in the first sampling period for two of the sections, was not repeated in the second period. Two situations were responsible for the decrease in beach quality over time: the erosive process that took place after 2012 and consequent reduction in vegetation cover and width of the beach environment. The current state of the beach and its gradual loss of quality over the years indicate an unpromising trend towards recovery. The methodology used in this study can be easily repeated in other locations with similar problems, generating data that can help in understanding local conditions.

Use of auxiliary techniques for assessing the reproductive capacity of natural service Nellore bulls.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether parameters obtained by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), infrared thermography (IRT), and testicular B-mode and Doppler ultrasound can be used as indicators of fertility in natural service Nellore bulls. Twenty-nine Nellore bulls were evaluated on days 66 (-D66), 38 (-D38), and 10 (-D10) before the beginning of natural service mating. In all assessments, semen samples were collected and sperm kinetics were evaluated by CASA, thermographic imaging of the scrotal and ocular region, testicular B-mode ultrasound, and Doppler ultrasound of the spermatic cord. At the end of natural service, the bulls were classified based on the pregnancy rate of individual batches into low fertility (pregnancy rate 66.57 ± 0.62 %), medium fertility (76.47 ± 0.51 %), and high fertility (84.80 ± 0.60 %) groups. No difference in the IRT parameters was observed between groups. High fertility animals exhibited higher average path velocity (VAP = 110.98 µm/s), straight line velocity (VSL = 87.05 µm/s), curvilinear velocity (VCL = 190.78 µm/s), pulsatility index (PI = 0.93), and resistive index (RI = 0.57) than low fertility animals (VAP = 100.02 µm/s; VSL = 79.84 µm/s; VCL = 173.22 µm/s; PI = 0.69; RI = 0.48). Positive correlations were observed between pregnancy rate and VSL (0.21), PI (0.28) and RI (0.32). In conclusion, IRT does not provide fertility indicators in Nellore bulls. The VAP, VSL and VCL obtained by CASA and PI and RI obtained by Doppler ultrasound can be used as indicators of fertility in Nellore bulls.

The role of mucosal-associated invariant T cells in visceral leishmaniasis.

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are restricted by MR1 and are known to protect against bacterial and viral infections. Our understanding of the role of MAIT cells in parasitic infections, such as visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by protozoan parasites of Leishmania donovani, is limited. This study showed that in response to L. infantum, human peripheral blood MAIT cells from children with leishmaniasis produced TNF and IFN-γ in an MR1-dependent manner. The overall frequency of MAIT cells was inversely correlated with alanine aminotransferase levels, a specific marker of liver damage strongly associated with severe hepatic involvement in VL. In addition, there was a positive correlation between total protein levels and the frequency of IL-17A+ CD8+ MAIT cells, whereby reduced total protein levels are a marker of liver and kidney damage. Furthermore, the frequencies of IFN-γ+ and IL-10+ MAIT cells were inversely correlated with hemoglobin levels, a marker of severe anemia. In asymptomatic individuals and VL patients after treatment, MAIT cells also produced IL-17A, a cytokine signature associated with resistance to visceral leishmaniasis, suggesting that MAIT cells play important role in protecting against VL. In summary, these results broaden our understanding of MAIT-cell immunity to include protection against parasitic infections, with implications for MAIT-cell-based therapeutics and vaccines. At last, this study paves the way for the investigation of putative MAIT cell antigens that could exist in the context of Leishmania infection.

Validation of a colorimetric LAMP to detect Loxosceles experimental envenomation.

Diagnostic tests for brown spider accidents are unavailable and impact treatment decisions, increasing costs and patient risks. In this work, we used for the first time a fast, simple, and visual method based on the loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay (LAMP) to detect Loxosceles envenomation. Using the DNA from L. similis legs, we observed a high sensitivity using this test since as low as 0.32 pg of DNA could be detected. This pH-dependent colorimetric assay was 64 times more sensitive than PCR to detect spider DNA. The test was specific for Loxosceles once no cross-reaction was observed when testing DNA from different agents that cause similar dermonecrotic injuries. The test allowed the detection of Loxosceles intermedia DNA from hair, serum, and exudate samples obtained from experimentally-envenomed rabbit within 72 h. The method sensitivity varied according to the sample and the collection time, reaching 100% sensitivity in serum and hair, respectively, 1 h and 24 h after the experimental envenomation. Due to its ease of execution, speed, sensitivity, and specificity, LAMP presents an excellent potential for identifying Loxosceles spp. Envenomation. This can reduce the burden on the Health System and the morbidity for the patient by implementing the appropriate therapy immediately.In addition, this work opens up the perspective to other venomous animal accident identification using LAMP.

Escala de Discriminação Cotidiana para Adolescentes e Jovens: Adaptação e Evidências Psicométricas / Everyday Discrimination Scale for Adolescents and Youth: Adaptation and Psychometric Evidence / Escala de Discriminación en la Vida Cotidiana para Adolescentes y Jóvenes: Adaptación y Pruebas Psicométricas

A discriminação tem um impacto negativo na saúde mental e nos desfechos acadêmicos e socioemocionais das pessoas. Um dos instrumentos mais usados para medir a frequência de experiências de discriminação é a Escala de Discriminação Cotidiana. Contudo, esta escala não foi ainda adaptada ao contexto brasileiro. Desta forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi adaptar e validar a Escala de Discriminação Cotidiana em uma amostra de adolescentes e jovens brasileiros de nível socioeconômico baixo e descrever os motivos de discriminação mais prevalentes. Analisou-se as equivalências linguísticas e a estrutura factorial da escala. A amostra foi composta de 995 estudantes pobres, advindos do Ensino Fundamental de cinco escolas públicas do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e de duas universidades públicas do Estado do Ceará, com idade entre 11 e 29 anos (M = 15,81, DP = 3,55), 54,8% constituída por mulheres (n = 522). A Análise Fatorial Exploratória realizada revelou uma estrutura unifatorial, com boa confiabilidade e validade. Os motivos de discriminação mais frequentes foram a aparência física e o nível socioeconômico. Os achados sugerem que a versão adaptada da escala apresenta qualidades psicométricas que permitem a sua utilização junto a adolescentes e jovens brasileiros.

Discrimination has a negative impact on people's mental health and academic and socio-emotional outcomes. One of the most commonly used instruments to assess the frequency of discrimination experiences is the Everyday Discrimination Scale. However, this instrument has not yet been adapted to the Brazilian context. Hence, this study aimed to adapt and validate the Everyday Discrimination Scale to a sample of Brazilian adolescents and young adults of low socioeconomic level and describe the most prevalent grounds for discrimination. Linguistic equivalences and the scale's factorial structure were analyzed. The sample comprised 995 students with a background of poverty, attending five public elementary schools in Rio de Janeiro State and two public universities of Ceará State, aged between 11 and 29 years old (M = 15,81; SD = 3,55), of which 54,8% (n = 522) were women. The Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed a unifactorial structure, with good reliability and convergent validity. Among the reasons mentioned for the perceived discrimination, physical appearance and socioeconomic level were the most frequent. The findings suggest the scale's adapted version presents psychometric qualities that allow its use with Brazilian adolescents and young people.

La discriminación tiene impacto negativo en la salud mental y los resultados académicos y socioemocionales de las personas. Uno de los instrumentos más utilizados para medir la frecuencia de las experiencias de discriminación es la Escala de Discriminación en la Vida Diaria. Sin embargo, esta escala aún no se ha adaptado al contexto brasileño. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue adaptar y validar la Escala de Discriminación Cotidiana en una muestra de adolescentes y jóvenes brasileños de nivel socioeconómico bajo y describir los motivos de discriminación más prevalentes. Se analizaron las equivalencias lingüísticas y la estructura factorial de la escala. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 995 alumnos pobres, provenientes de la Enseñanza Básica de cinco escuelas públicas del Estado de Río de Janeiro y de dos universidades públicas del Ceará, con edades comprendidas entre los 11 y los 29 años (M = 15,81, DT = 3,55), siendo el 54,8% mujeres (n = 522). El Análisis Factorial Exploratorio realizado reveló una estructura unifactorial, con buena fiabilidad y validez. Los motivos de discriminación más frecuentes fueron el aspecto físico y el nivel socioeconómico. Los resultados sugieren que la versión adaptada presenta cualidades psicométricas que permiten su uso con adolescentes y jóvenes brasileños.

Effect of Nellore (Bos indicus) donor age on in-vitro embryo production and pregnancy rate.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of age of Nellore (Bos indicus) donors on the efficiency of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) and pregnancy rate. Thirty-six donors, including 11 female calves (13 ± 0.61 months), 17 prepubertal heifers (25 ± 0.78 months) and 8 cows (83 ± 28 months), were submitted to 3 procedures of ovum pickup (OPU) on random days of the estrous cycle at intervals of 21 days. Caspase-3 and IGFBP2 were quantified in oocytes and blastocysts for the evaluation of oocyte and embryo quality. The produced embryos were vitrified (n = 445) and transferred to synchronized recipients. Cows produced a larger number of follicles (cows: 54.5 ± 6.2; calves: 20.0 ± 0.57; prepubertal heifers: 20.8 ± 0.46), total oocytes (cows: 45.97 ± 7.22; calves: 28.93 ± 6.14; prepubertal heifers: 27.21 ± 4.94) and cleaved oocytes (cows: 21.14 ± 4.22; calves: 13.09 ± 3.72; prepubertal heifers: 12.4 ± 3.19). The cleavage rate was similar between age categories; however, cows tended (p < 0.07) to produce a larger number of blastocysts (9.74 ± 2.26) per OPU than calves (5.57 ± 1.99) and prepubertal heifers tended to have a higher blastocyst yield (35.4%) than calves (27.1%) (p < .07). The expression levels of IGFBP2 and caspase-3 were higher in oocytes derived from calves compared to the other two categories. The pregnancy rate was higher in calves (43.1%) and cows (40.4%) than in prepubertal heifers (33.8%) (p = .03). Despite the larger numbers of follicles and viable oocytes in cows, the blastocyst production results and pregnancy rates obtained indicate that the use of young females as oocyte donors in IVEP is feasible and may contribute to reduce the generation interval.

Tolerance of foodborne Acinetobacter spp. to sanitizer agents.

INTRODUCTION: The bacteria Acinetobacter spp. are extremely relevant in clinical settings. Recently, they have emerged as potential food-borne opportunistic pathogens. Their ability to form biofilms contributes to antibiotic resistance by generating an environment that facilitates the acquisition and transfer of resistance genes. Studies on the tolerance of Acinetobacter spp. from food sources to sanitizers used in the food industry and homes are necessary to help mitigate food contamination by these microorganisms. METHODOLOGY: Isolates from ready-to-eat salads (n = 11) and raw goat milk (n = 4) were evaluated for their tolerance to sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), quaternary ammonium compound/biguanide (QAC/BG), and peracetic acid (PAA). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that the concentration of these sanitizers in food-processing equipment and utensils and other food-contact articles should not exceed 200 parts per million (ppm). RESULTS: The minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) concentrations of NaClO were above 312.5 ppm for all isolates tested and ≥ 2,500 ppm for four isolates from salads. Only three isolates from salads and four isolates from goat milk were inhibited by an MIC lower than 200 ppm of PAA. QAC/BG presented the lowest MIC and MCB values (9.37/6.25  ppm for all isolates tested), suggesting that it is the most effective agent against the isolates used in this study. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that Acinetobacter spp. isolates from food can be tolerant to the recommended concentrations of NaClO and PAA, which highlights the health risks to consumers.

Chemokines in Leishmaniasis: Map of cell movements highlights the landscape of infection and pathogenesis.

Pathogen interactions with the host immune response components are critical for establishing protective immunity and pathological responses against Leishmania parasites. A predominant proinflammatory profile associated with enhanced phagocytosis trigger a cell-mediated immune response that is relevant to infection control. On the other hand, an anti-inflammatory phenotype, correlated with a predominant modulated/regulatory response, favors intracellular proliferation of Leishmania parasites and disease progression. In this context, chemokines play an important role in determining cellular composition at inflammatory sites. Leishmania infection induces the expression of various chemokines and chemokine receptors in the mammalian host, which can subvert the host immune responses. Indeed, the balance and dynamic changes in cytokines and chemokines may control or predict the disease outcome. In this review, we address our current knowledge regarding the chemokines and chemokines receptors' role in the immunopathogenesis of Tegumentary and Visceral Leishmaniasis.

Evaluation of ceramic veneer adaptation by optical coherence tomography: a clinical report / Avaliação da adaptação de laminado cerâmico por tomografia de coerência óptica: relato de caso

Introduction: Ceramic veneers represent a treatment approach in aesthetic dentistry. They are indicated in cases of alterations in size, contour, form and color of the teeth. The clinical and radiographic examinations may not allow the correct identification of failures in the treatment with ceramic veneers. Objective: To report the use of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for the evaluation and repair of an aesthetic oral rehabilitation involving ceramic veneers. Case report: A 24-year-old female patient complained of unsatisfied color change in the ceramic veneer placed on the right maxillary central incisor. The clinical examination showed color changes between the middle and incisal thirds of mesial surface of the tooth crown. The OCT sagittal images evidenced the presence of bubbles or gaps in the adhesive interface. The treatment consisted of repair of the restoration by infiltration of a composite resin. Conclusion: The OCT was found to be valid tool to evaluate the adaptation of the ceramic veneer placed on the maxillary central incisor (AU)

Introdução: Laminados cerâmicos representam uma abordagem de tratamento em Odontologia. São indicados em casos de alterações no tamanho, contorno, forma e cor dos dentes. O exame clínico e o emprego de radiografias convencionais podem não permitir a correta identificação de falhas no tratamento com laminados cerâmicos. Objetivo:Relatamos o uso da tomografia de coerência óptica (TCO) para avaliação da adaptação e reparo de uma reabilitação oral estética com laminados cerâmicos. Relato de caso:Paciente do sexo feminino, 24 anos, queixou-se de alteração de cor em laminado cerâmica cimentado no incisivo central superior direito. O exame clínico evidenciou alterações de cor entre os terços médio e incisal da superfície mesial do dente. As imagens obtidas por TCO mostraram a presença de bolhas ou gaps na interface adesiva da região. O plano de tratamento consistiu no reparo mediante infiltração de uma resina composta no local indicado pela TCO. Conclusão: A tomografia de coerência óptica se mostrou um método auxiliar eficaz para análise da adaptação do laminado cerâmico no incisivo superior direito. (AU)

Perfil das usuárias de DIU no município de São Paulo / IUD user's profile among women living in the city of São Paulo

Os dispositivos intrauterinos (DIU) são métodos contraceptivos de alta eficácia, bom custo-benefício, com longo período de uso e nenhum efeito colateral sistêmico. No entanto, sua taxa de utilização ainda é baixa no Brasil. Com o objetivo de saber a prevalência de uso contraceptivo na maior cidade do Brasil, São Paulo, foi realizado o inquérito populacional "Ouvindo Mulheres: Contracepção no Município de São Paulo" com uma amostra probabilística de 4.0000 mulheres com idade de 15 a 44 anos, residentes nessa cidade em 2015. Neste artigo, apresenta-se a prevalência de uso de DIU e as características de suas usuárias. Verificou-se que 2,4% das mulheres sexualmente ativas e não grávidas estavam em uso do DIU. Na análise multivariada, revelaram-se associados ao uso do DIU o fato de não ter filhos e a religião. Observou-se que a chance de uma mulher que tem filhos usar o DIU é 8 vezes maior do que a das nulíparas. As espíritas e evangélicas de missão tendem a usar 4 vezes mais o DIU quando comparadas às mulheres sem religião. São necessários esforços para que um número maior de mulheres tenha acesso a informações corretas sobre este método e ao insumo.