Periparturient Changes in Voluntary Intake, Digestibility, and Performance of Grazing Zebu Beef Cows with or without Protein Supplementation.

We aimed to understand the changes in nutritional parameters and performance of beef cows during the peripartum, whether receiving or not receiving protein supplements. Forty cows were used, divided into two treatments: CON-mineral mix and SUP-protein supplementation. Digestibility trial was performed at 45, 30, and 15 days (d) before the parturition and at 20 and 40 d of lactation. The ADG of cows pre- and postpartum was recorded along with the BCS in gestational (GT) and maternal (MT) tissues in the prepartum. There was an effect of treatment and period (p ≤ 0.044) for intakes of DM and CP. The forage intake was similar (p > 0.90) but varied with the effect of days related to parturition (p < 0.001). There was a 14.37% decrease in DM intake from d -30 to d -15 of prepartum. In the postpartum, at 20 d of lactation, there was an increase of 72.7% in relation to d -15 of prepartum. No differences were observed in postpartum ADG or BCS at parturition and postpartum (p ≥ 0.12). However, higher total and MT ADG (p ≤ 0.02) were observed in animals receiving supplementation, while ADG in GT remained similar (p > 0.14). In conclusion, there is a decrease in intake for pregnant cows close to parturition and greater performance of animals supplemented in prepartum.

The Impact of the CTHRSSVVC Peptide Upon Experimental Models of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection.

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the hemoflagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, affects more than six million people worldwide and presents an unsatisfactory therapy, based on two nitroderivatives, introduced in clinical medicine for decades. The synthetic peptide, with CTHRSSVVC sequence (PepA), mimics the CD163 and TNF-α tripeptide "RSS" motif and binds to atheromatous plaques in carotid biopsies of human patients, spleen tissues, and a low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (LDLr-/-) mouse model of atherosclerosis. CD163 receptor is present on monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils, acting as a regulator of acute-phase processes and modulating aspects of the inflammatory response and the establishment of infections. Due to the potential theranostic role of PepA, our aim was to investigate its effect upon T. cruzi infection in vitro and in vivo. PepA and two other peptides with shuffled sequences were assayed upon different binomials of host cell/parasite, including professional [as peritoneal mouse macrophages (PMM)] and non-professional phagocytes [primary cultures of cardiac cells (CM)], under different protocols. Also, their impact was further addressed in vivo using a mouse model of acute experimental Chagas disease. Our in-vitro findings demonstrate that PepA and PepB (the peptide with random sequence retaining the "RS" sequence) reduced the intracellular parasitism of the PMM but were inactive during the infection of cardiac cells. Another set of in-vitro and in-vivo studies showed that they do not display a trypanocidal effect on bloodstream trypomastigotes nor exhibit in-vivo efficacy when administered after the parasite inoculation. Our data report the in-vitro activity of PepA and PepB upon the infection of PMM by T. cruzi, possibly triggering the microbicidal arsenal of the host professional phagocytes, capable of controlling parasitic invasion and proliferation.

Acquisition of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli among intensive care unit (ICU) patients with no previous use of carbapenems: Indirect population impact of antimicrobial use.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the impact of exposure to patients using carbapenem on the acquisition of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli (CR-GNB) among patients not using carbapenems. DESIGN: An ecological study and a cohort study. SETTING: Two medical surgical intensive care units (ICUs) in inner Brazil. PARTICIPANTS: Patients admitted to 2 ICUs from 2013 through 2018 to whom carbapenem was not prescribed. METHODS: In the ecologic study, the monthly use of carbapenems (days of therapy [DOT] per 1,000 patient days) was tested for linear correlation with the 2-month moving average of incidence CR-GNB among patients to whom carbapenem was not prescribed. In the cohort study, those patients were addressed individually for risk factors (demographics, invasive interventions, use of antimicrobials) for acquisition of CR-GNB, including time at risk and the "carbapenem pressure," described as the aggregate DOT among other ICU patients during time at risk. The analysis was performed in univariate and multivariable Poisson regression models. RESULTS: The linear regression model revealed an association of total carbapenem use and incidence of CR-GNB (coefficient, 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02-0.06; P = .001). In the cohort model, the adjusted rate ratio (RR) for carbapenem DOT was 1.009 (95% CI, 1.001-1.018; P = .03). Other significant risk factors were mechanical ventilation and the previous use of ceftazidime (with or without avibactam). CONCLUSIONS: Every additional DOT of total carbapenem use increased the risk of CR-GNB acquisition by patients not using carbapenems by nearly 1%. We found evidence for a population ("herd effect"-like) impact of antimicrobial use in the ICUs.

Effect of High Voltage Pulsed Current on the integration of total skin grafts in rats submitted to nicotine action.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of High Voltage Pulsed Current (HVPC) on the integration of total skin grafts in rats submitted to nicotine action. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this purpose, 60 adult Wistar rats randomly distributed in 6 groups of 10 animals were analyzed. The electrical stimulation (anodic and cathodic stimulation, motor level, 30 min at 10 Hz; minimum voltage 20 µs and 100 µs pulse interval) was applied for seven days, starting on the third day after surgery and after the dressing was removed from the graft. RESULTS: Anodic HVPC promoted greater graft integration, demonstrating a lower percentage of tissue contraction, a lower number of inflammatory infiltrates and a greater amount of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as a higher number of newly formed blood vessels. CONCLUSIONS: HVPC can positively influence the integration of skin grafts in nicotine-treated rats. anodic HVPC is shown to promote greater integration in relation to a lower percentage of tissue contraction, a lower number of inflammatory infiltrates and a greater amount of vascular endothelial growth factor and newformed blood vessels. Whereas, the cathodic polarity has presented smaller amount of tissue gap.

Independent regulation of Plasmodium falciparum rif gene promoters.

All Plasmodium species express variant antigens which may mediate immune escape in the vertebrate host. In Plasmodium falciparum, the rif gene family encodes variant antigens which are partly exposed on the infected red blood cell surface and may function as virulence factors. Not all rif genes are expressed at the same time and it is unclear what controls rif gene expression. In this work, we addressed global rif transcription using plasmid vectors with two drug resistance markers, one controlled by a rif 5' upstream region and the second by a constitutively active promoter. After spontaneous integration into the genome of one construct, we observed that the resistance marker controlled by the rif 5' upstream region was expressed dependent on the applied drug pressure. Then, the global transcription of rif genes in these transfectants was compared in the presence or absence of drugs. The relative transcript quantities of all rif loci did not change profoundly between strains grown with or without drug. We conclude that either there is no crosstalk between rif loci or that the elusive system of allelic exclusion of rif gene transcription is not controlled by their 5' upstream region alone.

Analysis of Circulating miR-1, miR-23a, and miR-26a in Atrial Fibrillation Patients Undergoing Coronary Bypass Artery Grafting Surgery.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia after cardiac surgery. From a pathophysiological point of view, a myriad of factors such as trauma, atrial dilation, ischemia, mechanical myopericarditis, autonomic imbalance, loss of connexins, AF nest remodeling, inflammation, sutures, and dysfunction caused by postextracorporeal circulation can contribute to postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) resulting in a longer hospital stay and consequently higher cost. Recent studies showed that short fragments of RNA, called microRNA (miRNA), can contribute to the development of several cardiovascular diseases, including AF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of circulating miRNAs (miR-1, -23a, and -26a) that can be involved in POAF. Patients submitted to coronary artery bypass graft surgery were grouped in POAF (24 patients) and without POAF (24 patients). Results showed older age, longer clamp-time, and more days in the intensive care unit as well as a longer total hospital stay in the POAF group. Preoperative levels of circulating miRNAs were similar. Analysis of miRNAs revealed significantly lower circulating levels of miRNA-23a (P = 0.02) and -26a (P = 0.01) in the POAF group during the postoperative period. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed the area under the ROC curve of miR-23a and miR-26a for predicting FA was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51-0.74; P = 0.02) and 0.66 (95% CI: 0.55-0.77; P = 0.01), respectively. Our data suggests that circulating miRNA-23a and -26a may be involved in the underlying biology of postoperative AF development.

Banana peel in the diet for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows / Casca de banana em dieta para vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of includingsun-dried banana peel in diets for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on intake, digestibility and milk production. Diets were composed of 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60% replacement of sorghum silage with banana peel provided to 10 cows in two simultaneous 5 x 5 Latin squares, with the experiment divided into five periods of 16 days. The dry matter intake showed a quadratic effect with maximum level at 38.30% substitution as well as intake of crude protein expressed in kg-1 day and percentage of body weight, with maximum at the levels of 50.09 and 45.69% inclusion of the peel, respectively. The intake of neutral detergent fiber and the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and crude protein showed a decreasing linear effect. Variation in weight and body condition score, milk production and feed conversion were not affected. The replacement of 60% sorghum silage with banana peel represents a viable alternative as it causes no change in cows with average production of 16.49 kg milk with 3.5% fat day-1, reducing feeding costs.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de casca de banana seca ao sol na dieta de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu, sobre consumo, digestibilidade e produção de leite. As dietas foram constituídas de 0, 15, 30, 45 e 60% de substituição da silagem de sorgo pela casca de banana. Foram utilizadas 10 vacas e o delineamento experimental foi em 2 quadrados latinos 5 x 5 simultâneos, sendo o período experimental dividido em cinco períodos de 16 dias. O consumo de matéria seca apresentou efeito quadrático com valor máximo no nível de 38,30% de substituição, assim como o consumo de proteína bruta expresso em kg dia-1 e em porcentagem do peso corporal, com valor máximo nos níveis de 50,09 e 45,69% de inclusão da casca, respectivamente. O consumo de fibra em detergente neutro e as digestibilidades da fibra em detergente neutro e da proteína bruta apresentaram efeito linear decrescente. As variações de peso e escore corporal, produção de leite e conversão alimentar não foram influenciados. A substituição de 60% da silagem de sorgo por casca de banana pode ser uma alternativa viável já que não altera produção de vacas com produção média de 16,49 kg de leite com 3,5% de gordura dia-1, reduzindo os custos com a alimentação.(AU)

nalysis of circulating miR-1, miR-23a, and miR-26a in atrial fibrillation patients undergoing coronary bypass artery grafting surgery

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia after cardiac surgery. From a pathophysiological point of view, a myriad of factors such as trauma, atrial dilation, ischemia, mechanical myopericarditis, autonomic imbalance, loss of connexins, AF nest remodeling, inflammation, sutures, and dysfunction caused by postextracorporeal circulation can contribute to postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) resulting in a longer hospital stay and consequently higher cost. Recent studies showed that short fragments of RNA, called microRNA (miRNA), can contribute to the development of several cardiovascular diseases, including AF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of circulating miRNAs (miR-1, -23a, and -26a) that can be involved in POAF. Patients submitted to coronary artery bypass graft surgery were grouped in POAF (24 patients) and without POAF (24 patients). Results showed older age, longer clamp-time, and more days in the intensive care unit as well as a longer total hospital stay in the POAF group. Preoperative levels of circulating miRNAs were similar...

Banana peel in the diet for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows / Casca de banana em dieta para vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of includingsun-dried banana peel in diets for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on intake, digestibility and milk production. Diets were composed of 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60% replacement of sorghum silage with banana peel provided to 10 cows in two simultaneous 5 x 5 Latin squares, with the experiment divided into five periods of 16 days. The dry matter intake showed a quadratic effect with maximum level at 38.30% substitution as well as intake of crude protein expressed in kg-1 day and percentage of body weight, with maximum at the levels of 50.09 and 45.69% inclusion of the peel, respectively. The intake of neutral detergent fiber and the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and crude protein showed a decreasing linear effect. Variation in weight and body condition score, milk production and feed conversion were not affected. The replacement of 60% sorghum silage with banana peel represents a viable alternative as it causes no change in cows with average production of 16.49 kg milk with 3.5% fat day-1, reducing feeding costs.

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de casca de banana seca ao sol na dieta de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu, sobre consumo, digestibilidade e produção de leite. As dietas foram constituídas de 0, 15, 30, 45 e 60% de substituição da silagem de sorgo pela casca de banana. Foram utilizadas 10 vacas e o delineamento experimental foi em 2 quadrados latinos 5 x 5 simultâneos, sendo o período experimental dividido em cinco períodos de 16 dias. O consumo de matéria seca apresentou efeito quadrático com valor máximo no nível de 38,30% de substituição, assim como o consumo de proteína bruta expresso em kg dia-1 e em porcentagem do peso corporal, com valor máximo nos níveis de 50,09 e 45,69% de inclusão da casca, respectivamente. O consumo de fibra em detergente neutro e as digestibilidades da fibra em detergente neutro e da proteína bruta apresentaram efeito linear decrescente. As variações de peso e escore corporal, produção de leite e conversão alimentar não foram influenciados. A substituição de 60% da silagem de sorgo por casca de banana pode ser uma alternativa viável já que não altera produção de vacas com produção média de 16,49 kg de leite com 3,5% de gordura dia-1, reduzindo os custos com a alimentação.

The Peer and Non-peer: the potential of risk management for HIV prevention in contexts of prostitution.

Sex workers have been the protagonists and focus of HIV prevention campaigns and research since the late 1980s in Brazil. Through a review of national and international literature, combined with a history of sex workers' involvement in the construction of the Brazilian response, this article explores the overlaps and disconnects between research and practice in contexts of prostitution over the past three decades. We review the scientific literature on the epidemiology of HIV among sex workers and prevention methodologies. We conclude that although research focus and designs often reinforce the idea that sex workers' vulnerability is due to their sexual relationships with clients, their greatest vulnerability has been found to be with their nonpaying intimate partners. Few studies explore their work contexts and structural factors that influence safe sex practices with both types of partners. The negative effects of criminalization, stigma, and exclusively biomedical and peer education-based approaches are well documented in the scientific literature and experiences of sex worker activists, as is the importance of prevention programs that combine empowerment and human rights-based approach to reduce HIV infection rates. We conclude that there is a need for actions, policies, and research that encompass the environment and context of sex workers' lives and reincorporate the human rights and citizenship frame that dominated the Brazilian response until the end of the 2000s. As part of HIV prevention efforts, female sex workers need to be considered above all as women, equal to all others.

The Peer and Non-peer: the potential of risk management for HIV prevention in contexts of prostitution / O Par e o Ímpar: o potencial de gestão de risco para a prevenção de DST/HIV/AIDS em contextos de prostituição

ABSTRACT Sex workers have been the protagonists and focus of HIV prevention campaigns and research since the late 1980s in Brazil. Through a review of national and international literature, combined with a history of sex workers' involvement in the construction of the Brazilian response, this article explores the overlaps and disconnects between research and practice in contexts of prostitution over the past three decades. We review the scientific literature on the epidemiology of HIV among sex workers and prevention methodologies. We conclude that although research focus and designs often reinforce the idea that sex workers' vulnerability is due to their sexual relationships with clients, their greatest vulnerability has been found to be with their nonpaying intimate partners. Few studies explore their work contexts and structural factors that influence safe sex practices with both types of partners. The negative effects of criminalization, stigma, and exclusively biomedical and peer education-based approaches are well documented in the scientific literature and experiences of sex worker activists, as is the importance of prevention programs that combine empowerment and human rightsbased approach to reduce HIV infection rates. We conclude that there is a need for actions, policies, and research that encompass the environment and context of sex workers' lives and reincorporate the human rights and citizenship frame that dominated the Brazilian response until the end of the 2000s. As part of HIV prevention efforts, female sex workers need to be considered above all as women, equal to all others.

RESUMO Prostitutas têm sido protagonistas e foco de campanhas de prevenção de HIV desde o final da década de 1980 no Brasil. Com base em um levantamento da literatura nacional e internacional, combinada com a trajetória do movimento de prostitutas na construção da resposta brasileira à epidemia, este artigo explora as sobreposições e incoerências entre pesquisa e prática em contextos de prostituição nas últimas três décadas. Na revisão da literatura científica, verificamos que a maior vulnerabilidade desse grupo social ocorre com os parceiros íntimos, não-comerciais; entretanto, o foco das pesquisas e a forma que são feitas geralmente reforçam a ideia de que a vulnerabilidade decorre de seus clientes. Ao mesmo tempo, há poucos estudos sobre seus contextos de trabalho e fatores estruturais que influenciam práticas sexuais mais seguras com ambos os tipos de parceiros. Os efeitos negativos da criminalização, do estigma, e de abordagens exclusivamente biomédicas e baseadas de uma forma isolada na metodologia de educação pelos pares estão bem documentados na literatura científica e nas experiências de ativistas, assim como a importância de programas de prevenção baseados em direitos humanos e sexuais. Concluímos que há necessidade de ações, políticas e pesquisas que incluam o ambiente e contexto nos quais profissionais do sexo trabalham, que reincorporem o arcabouço de direitos humanos e cidadania que dominou a resposta brasileira até o final da década de 2000, e que prostitutas devem ser consideradas e tratadas como mulheres, iguais a todas as outras.

Tradução e adaptação cultural do instrumento Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34 / Translation and cultural adaptation of the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34

O presente estudo tem como objetivo traduzir para a língua portuguesa e adaptar culturalmente o instrumento Supportive Care Needs Survey ­ Short Form (SCNS-SF34), o qual é composto por 34 questões, desenvolvido para avaliar as diferentes áreas de necessidades para o paciente com câncer. É estruturado em cinco domínios: Psicológico; Sistema de Saúde e Informação; Físico e Vida Diária; Suporte e Cuidado; e Sexualidade. A pesquisa foi realizada na Central de Quimioterapia do A.C. Camargo Cancer Center. Foi um estudo descritivo, caracterizado por duas etapas: a adaptação cultural do instrumento SCNS-SF34; e a análise das propriedades psicométricas (validade de construto e confiabilidade) da versão adaptada. A população é constituída de pacientes portadores de câncer com diagnóstico realizado há, pelo menos, três meses, que estejam em quimioterapia, atendidos na Central de Quimioterapia. Foi utilizada uma amostra não probabilística. Para a avaliação da validade de construto foi realizada a análise fatorial, seguida da análise de confiabilidade com avaliação do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach. Em seguida, foi realizada a avaliação da validade convergente, considerando o instrumento EORTC QLQ-C-30, e avaliação pelo coeficiente de Correlação de Pearson. Para avaliação da estabilidade, foi realizado teste-reteste com teste de médias t-student. Foram entrevistados 115 pacientes. A maioria do sexo feminino (71,3%); com ensino superior (47,7%); casada (73,9%). O tumor mais frequente foi o tumor na mama (54,8), e o estádio III (47,8%). A solução da análise fatorial foi com sete fatores. O coeficiente alfa de Cronbach foi superior a 0,80 em todos os domínios avaliados. Optou-se por duas questões permanecerem separadamente na escala em razão das avaliações da análise de construto. A validade convergente mostrou que a escala apresenta correlação com sintomas do EORTC QLQ-C30. O instrumento mostrou estabilidade, não apresentando diferenças significativas entre as duas medidas. Com base nos dados apresentados, foi possível concluir que o SNCS-SF34 é um instrumento que está validado para o idioma Português e apresenta confiabilidade adequada.

This study aims to translate into Portuguese and also to culturally adapt the Supportive Care Needs Survey Instrument - Short Form (SCNS-SF34), which consists of 34 questions designed to evaluate the different areas of needs of cancer patients. This instrument is structured in five domains: Psychological; Health System and Information; Physical and Daily Life; Support and Care; and Sexuality. The survey was conducted at the Chemotherapy Center of AC Camargo Cancer Center. It was a descriptive study, characterized by two stages: the cultural adaptation of SCNS-SF34 instrument; and the analysis of the psychometric properties (construct validity and reliability) of the adapted version. The population consists of cancer patients diagnosed at least three months prior to the survey, undergoing chemotherapy treatment at the Chemotherapy Center. A non-probabilistic sample was used. To evaluate the construct validity we performed a factorial analysis followed by the reliability analysis based on the evaluation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Next, we conducted the evaluation of the convergent validity, considering the EORTC QLQ- C-30 instrument, and we also performed a Pearson correlation coefficient evaluation. To evaluate the stability, we performed test-retest with Student's t-test. We interrogated 115 patients. The majority was female (71.3%); with university degree (47.7%); married (73.9%). The most common tumor was breast cancer (54.8) stage III (47.8%). The factorial analysis solution presented seven factors. The Cronbach alpha coefficient was higher than 0.80 in all domains assessed. We decided to separate two questions in the scale due to the construct analysis assessments. The convergent validity showed that the scale correlates with the EORTC QLQ-C30 symptoms. The instrument showed to be stable, with no significant differences between the two measures. Based on these data, we concluded that the SCNS-SF34 instrument is validated for Portuguese language and has adequate reliability.

Tradução e adaptação cultural do instrumento Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34 / Translation and cultural adaptation of the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34

O presente estudo tem como objetivo traduzir para a língua portuguesa eadaptar culturalmente o instrumento Supportive Care Needs Survey – ShortForm (SCNS-SF34), o qual é composto por 34 questões, desenvolvido paraavaliar as diferentes áreas de necessidades para o paciente com câncer. É estruturado em cinco domínios: Psicológico; Sistema de Saúde e Informação; Físico e Vida Diária; Suporte e Cuidado; e Sexualidade. A pesquisa foi realizada na Central de Quimioterapia do A.C. Camargo Cancer Center. Foi um estudo descritivo, caracterizado por duas etapas: a adaptação cultural do instrumento SCNS-SF34; e a análise das propriedades psicométricas (validade de construto e confiabilidade) da versão adaptada. A população é constituída de pacientes portadores de câncer com diagnóstico realizado há, pelo menos, três meses, que estejam em quimioterapia,atendidos na Central de Quimioterapia. Foi utilizada uma amostra não probabilística. Para a avaliação da validade de construto foi realizada aanálise fatorial, seguida da análise de confiabilidade com avaliação do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach. Em seguida, foi realizada a avaliação da validade convergente, considerando o instrumento EORTC QLQ-C-30, e avaliação pelo coeficiente de Correlação de Pearson. Para avaliação da estabilidade, foi realizado teste-reteste com teste de médias t-student. Foram entrevistados 115 pacientes. A maioria do sexo feminino (71,3%); com ensino superior (47,7%); casada (73,9%). O tumor mais frequente foi o tumor na mama (54,8), e o estádio III (47,8%). A solução da análise fatorial foi com sete fatores. O coeficiente alfa de Cronbach foi superior a 0,80 em todos os domínios avaliados. Optou-se por duas questões permanecerem separadamente na escala em razão das avaliações da análise de construto A validade convergente mostrou que a escala apresenta correlação comsintomas do EORTC QLQ-C30. O instrumento mostrou estabilidade, nãoapresentando diferenças significativas entre as duas...

This study aims to translate into Portuguese and also to culturally adapt theSupportive Care Needs Survey Instrument - Short Form (SCNS-SF34), which consists of 34 questions designed to evaluate the different areas of needs ofcancer patients. This instrument is structured in five domains: Psychological;Health System and Information; Physical and Daily Life; Support and Care; and Sexuality. The survey was conducted at the Chemotherapy Center of AC Camargo Cancer Center. It was a descriptive study, characterized by two stages: the cultural adaptation of SCNS-SF34 instrument; and the analysis of the psychometric properties (construct validity and reliability) of the adapted version. The population consists of cancer patients diagnosed at least three months prior to the survey, undergoing chemotherapy treatment at the Chemotherapy Center. A non-probabilistic sample was used. To evaluate the construct validity we performed a factorial analysis followed by the reliability analysis based on the evaluation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Next, we conducted the evaluation of the convergent validity, considering the EORTC QLQ- C-30 instrument, and we also performed a Pearson correlationcoefficient evaluation. To evaluate the stability, we performed test-retest withStudent's t-test. We interrogated 115 patients. The majority was female(71.3%); with university degree (47.7%); married (73.9%). The most common tumor was breast cancer (54.8) stage III (47.8%). The factorial analysissolution presented seven factors. The Cronbach alpha coefficient was higherthan 0.80 in all domains assessed. We decided to separate two questions inthe scale due to the construct analysis assessments. The convergent validityshowed that the scale correlates with the EORTC QLQ-C30 symptoms. Theinstrument showed to be stable, with no significant differences between thetwo measures. Based on these data, we concluded that the SCNS-SF34 instrument is validated for...

Plasmid-based controls to detect rpoB mutations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis by quantitative polymerase chain reaction-high-resolution melting.

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction-high-resolution melting (qPCR-HRM) analysis was used to screen for mutations related to drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We detected the C526T and C531T mutations in the rifampicin resistance-determining region (RRDR) of the rpoB gene with qPCR-HRM using plasmid-based controls. A segment of the RRDR region from M. tuberculosis H37Rv and from strains carrying C531T or C526T mutations in the rpoB were cloned into pGEM-T vector and these vectors were used as controls in the qPCR-HRM analysis of 54 M. tuberculosis strains. The results were confirmed by DNA sequencing and showed that recombinant plasmids can replace genomic DNA as controls in the qPCR-HRM assay. Plasmids can be handled outside of biosafety level 3 facilities, reducing the risk of contamination and the cost of the assay. Plasmids have a high stability, are normally maintained in Escherichia coli and can be extracted in large amounts.

Plasmid-based controls to detect rpoB mutations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis by quantitative polymerase chain reaction-high-resolution melting

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction-high-resolution melting (qPCR-HRM) analysis was used to screen for mutations related to drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We detected the C526T and C531T mutations in the rifampicin resistance-determining region (RRDR) of the rpoB gene with qPCR-HRM using plasmid-based controls. A segment of the RRDR region from M. tuberculosis H37Rv and from strains carrying C531T or C526T mutations in the rpoB were cloned into pGEM-T vector and these vectors were used as controls in the qPCR-HRM analysis of 54 M. tuberculosis strains. The results were confirmed by DNA sequencing and showed that recombinant plasmids can replace genomic DNA as controls in the qPCR-HRM assay. Plasmids can be handled outside of biosafety level 3 facilities, reducing the risk of contamination and the cost of the assay. Plasmids have a high stability, are normally maintained in Escherichia coli and can be extracted in large amounts.

Avaliar para melhorar: perspectiva de discentes na avaliação do curso de extensão sobre estomias / To assess to improve: students’ point of view on the assessment of the extension course on stomas / Evaluar para mejorar: perspectiva de estudiantes en la evaluación del curso de extensión sobre estomas

Estudo quantitativo, exploratório e descritivo, cujo objetivo foi identificar os níveis de satisfação e insatisfação dos discentes do curso de extensão intitulado A pessoa ostomizada e sua problemática biopsicossocial. Este curso foi realizado no ano 2010, na Faculdade de Enfermagem da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, objetivando capacitar graduandos e profissionais de enfermagem para o cuidado ao cliente com estomias urinárias e intestinais. Os sujeitos foram 64 alunos matriculados no referido curso. Os dados foram coletados através de questionários. Os resultados evidenciaram que em todos os critérios relacionados com o planejamento do curso, com o corpo docente e com a coordenação, a maioria dos discentes os classificou como muito satisfeitos (64,76%, 63,89%, 73,70%, respectivamente). Conclui-se que o curso transcorreu com nível de satisfação significativamente alto, e que a educação permanente é fundamental para o enfermeiro expandir e atualizar seus conhecimentos, oferecendo um cuidado de qualidade.

This is a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive study aimed at assessing levels of satisfaction and dissatisfaction among students of the extension course The ostomized person and his/her psychosocial issues. Held in 2010 at the Nursing School of the Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, the course aimed at training undergraduates and nursing professionals to take care of clients with urinary and intestinal stomas. The subjects were 64 (sixty-four) students registered at that course. Data were collected through questionnaires. Results showed that all criteria related to course planning, to the faculty, and to the course coordination were classified by most of the students as highly satisfactory (64.76%, 63.89%, 73.70%, respectively). Conclusions show that the course had a significantly high level of satisfaction, and that permanent education is critical to enabling the nurse to expand and update his/her knowledge, thus offering high-quality care.

Estudio cuantitativo, exploratorio y descriptivo, con el objetivo de identificar los niveles de satisfacción e insatisfacción de estudiantes del curso de extensión titulado: La persona ostomizada y sus problemas biopsicosociales. Este curso se realizó en 2010, en la Facultad de Enfermería de la Universidad Estatal de Río de Janeiro-Brasil, proponiendo capacitar pregraduandos y profesionales de enfermería para la atención al cliente con estomas urinarios e intestinales. Los sujetos fueron 64 estudiantes matriculados en ese curso. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de cuestionarios. Los resultados mostraron que en todos los criterios relativos con la planificación del curso, con los profesores y con la coordinación, la mayoría de los estudiantes se evaluó como muy satisfechos (64,76%, 63,89%, 73,70%, respectivamente). Se concluye que el curso transcurrió con un nivel muy alto de satisfacción, y que la educación permanente es fundamental para el enfermero ampliar y actualizar sus conocimientos, ofreciendo atención de calidad.

O cliente em situação cirúrgica e sua condição laboral: reflexões para a prática de enfermagem / Perisurgical clients’ employment situation: implications for nursing practice / El cliente en situación quirúrgica y su condición de trabajo: consideraciones para la práctica de enfermería

Estudo quantitativo cujo objeto foi a condição trabalhista dos clientes em situação cirúrgica internados em um hospital universitário da cidade do Rio de Janeiro. Objetivos: conhecer a situação empregatícia desses clientes e analisar as repercussões da condição trabalhista na dimensão psicossocial deles. Pesquisa descritiva desenvolvida com 52 clientes internados em um hospital universitário. A coleta ocorreu através de questionários, nos meses de abril a julho de 2010. A análise foi por meio de estatística simplificada. Os resultados apontaram que 48(92,3%) desenvolviam uma atividade produtiva remunerada, dos quais 25(52%) eram trabalhadores informais. Conclui-se que a maioria dos trabalhadores atuava na informalidade, e nos momentos de doença, quando mais precisam, não possuem direitos trabalhistas, o que os torna inseguros em relação à vivência cirúrgica. Desta forma, o enfermeiro precisa implementar medidas que visem minimizar impactos negativos desta situação sobre o processo saúde-doença da clientela.

This quantitative study at a teaching hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, aimed to assess the employment situation of perisurgical clients, and evaluate its psychosocial effects on their condition. Fifty-two clients were surveyed. Data was collected by questionnaire from April to July 2010, and analyzed by simplified statistics. Results showed that 48(92.3%) were engaged in paid productive activity, although 25(52%) of these had no formal employment relationship. It was concluded that most were informal workers who have no claim to labor rights when ill, which leaves them even more insecure about their surgery. Accordingly, nurses should take measures to minimize adverse impacts of that situation on clients’ health-illness process.

Estudio cuantitativo cuyo objetivo fue la situación laboral de los clientes quirúrgicos ingresados en un hospital universitario de Río de Janeiro - Brasil. Objetivos: conocer la situación del empleo de los clientes y analizar el impacto de las condiciones de trabajo en la dimensión psicosocial de los mismos. Investigación descriptiva desarrollada con 52 pacientes hospitalizados en un hospital universitario. La colección fue a través de cuestionarios, en los meses de abril a julio de 2010. El análisis fue hecho por medio de estadística simplificada. Los resultados mostraron que 48(92,3%) desarrollaban una actividad productiva remunerada, de los cuales 25(52%) eran trabajadores informales. Se concluye que la mayoría de los trabajadores trabajaban en el sector informal, y en tiempos de enfermedad, cuando ellos más necesitan, no tienen derechos laborales, lo que los hace inseguros cuanto a la experiencia quirúrgica. Así, el enfermero debe aplicar medidas para minimizar los impactos negativos del proceso de salud-enfermedad de la clientela.

Determinantes para suspensões cirúrgicas em um hospital universitário / Reasons for cancelling surgery at a university hospital / Factores determinantes para la suspensión de cirugías en un hospital universitario

Este é um estudo documental, retrospectivo e de natureza quantitativa, que trata dos determinantes para as suspensões cirúrgicas eletivas em um centro cirúrgico de um hospital universitário do município do Rio de Janeiro. O objetivo foi identificar o quantitativo de cirurgias eletivas suspensas em um recorte temporal de nove meses, considerando e analisando determinantes sobre as implicações emocionais, físicas e sociais para clientes, familiares e instituição. O resultado da investigação apontou que 27,4% das cirurgias suspensas tiveram como fator determinante as relações entre os clientes e a instituição. Além disso, a falta de condições clínicas (24,5%), o não comparecimento para internação (8,3%), a falta de material (10,3%) e o adiantado da hora (12%) foram citados como fatores que interferem no processo que culmina numa cirurgia. Parece evidente que alguns determinantes para os cancelamentos cirúrgicos podem e devem ser controlados e restringidos, o que leva à recomendação de um sistemático procedimento de conscientização de todos os envolvidos no processo, a fim de que se alcance a diminuição dos índices de suspensão cirúrgica na instituição em questão.

This is a documentary, retrospective and quantitative study that aims to determine the reasons for cancelling elective surgery at a University Hospital of Rio de Janeiro. It aims to identify the number of elective surgeries cancelled in a periodof nine months, considering emotional, physical and social implications for the clients, family and institution. The most frequent reason for cancelling a surgery was the relationship between customer and institution (27.4%). Lack of clinical conditions (24.5%), no show at the hospital (8.3%), lack of material (10.3%) and late hours (12%) were also mentioned as factors that interfere with the surgery. Apparently, some reasons could and should be controlled and restricted, leading to the recommendation of a systematic process of awareness in order to diminish surgical cancellation rates in this hospital.

El presente estudio es documental, retrospectivo y cuantitativo y enfoca los factores determinantes para la suspensión de cirugías electivas en el quirófano de un hospital universitario de Río de Janeiro. Su objetivo era determinar el número de cirugías electivas suspendidas durante un recorte de tiempo de nueve meses, teniendo en cuenta y analizando determinantes de las repercusiones emocionales, físicas y sociales en los clientes, la familia y la institución. El resultadode la investigación mostró que en 27,4% de las cirugías el factor determinante para su suspensión fue la relación entre el cliente y la institución. Además, la falta de condiciones clínicas (24,5%), el no presentarse para la internación (8,3%), la falta de material (10,3%) y la hora avanzada (12%) fueron citados como factores que interfieren en el proceso que culmina con la cirugía. Es evidente que algunos de los factores determinantes de la cancelación de cirugías pueden y deben ser...

A new PCR approach for the identification of Fusarium graminearum / Um novo protocolo de PCR para a identificação de Fusarium graminearum

The main objective of this work was to develop a PCR protocol for the identification of Fusarium graminearum, based on a pair of primers targeted to a segment of the 3' coding region of the gaoA gene that codes for the enzyme galactose oxidase (GO). This region has low homology with the same region of GO genes from other fungi. Genomic DNA from 17 strains of Fusarium spp. isolated from diseased cereals, from several other Fusarium species, and from other fungi genera was analyzed in a PCR assay using this primer set. The 17 strains of Fusarium spp. were also analyzed for the GO enzyme production in submerse fermentation in a new formulated liquid medium. All strains that were morphologically and molecularly identified as F. graminearum were able to secrete the enzyme and had a positive result in the used PCR protocol. No DNA fragment was amplified using genomic DNA from other Fusarium species and species of other fungi genera. The results suggest that the proposed PCR protocol is specific and can be considered as a new molecular tool for the identification of F. graminearum. In addition, the new formulated medium is a cheap alternative for screening for GO screening production by F. graminearum.

O principal objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver um novo protocolo de PCR para identificação de isolados de Fusarium graminearum, baseado no uso de um par de iniciadores direcionado para um segmento da região 3' codificadora do gene gaoA que codifica a enzima galactose oxidase (GO). Esta região possui baixa homologia com a mesma região de genes da GO de outros fungos. O DNA genômico de 17 cepas de Fusarium spp. isoladas de cereais infectados com sintomas, de vários outras espécies de Fusarium e de outros gêneros de fungos foi analisado em um protocolo de PCR utilizando os iniciadores desenhados. Os 17 isolados de Fusarium spp. também foram analisados para a produção da enzima GO em fermentação submersa em um novo meio líquido. Todas as cepas que foram morfologicamente e molecularmente identificadas como F. graminearum foram capazes de secretar a enzima e tiveram um resultado positivo no protocolo de PCR, utilizando os iniciadores direcionados para o gene gaoA. Nenhum fragmento de DNA foi amplificado quando foi utilizado o DNA genômico de várias outras espécies de Fusarium e de espécies de outros gêneros de fungos. Os resultados sugerem que o protocolo de PCR gerado é específico e pode ser considerado como uma nova ferramenta molecular para a identificação de cepas de F. graminearum. Além disso, o meio líquido formulado é uma alternativa barata para a avaliação da produção de GO por F. graminearum.

A construção da identidade de sujeitos deficientes no grupo terapêutico-fonoaudiológico / Identity formation of disabled individuals within a speech therapy group

Neste estudo, consideramos que o sujeito se constitui à medida que suas ações vão sendo interpretadas pelo outro, através da internalização de papéis, definidos, inicialmente, pelas pessoas que são referência mais concreta da criança, como a família e, posteriormente, pelo grupo social maior do qual ela faz parte. Nosso objetivo foi refletir sobre a formação/construção da identidade de jovens deficientes mentais que participavam de atendimento fonoaudiológico, realizado em grupo, analisando o papel da linguagem no processo de construção da imagem que o sujeito faz de si mesmo. O estudo teve sua origem a partir dos resultados obtidos em pesquisas realizadas anteriormente, com grupos de irmãos de sujeitos considerados deficientes mentais. Esses resultados revelaram a imagem negativa que os irmãos têm em relação ao irmão deficiente. O material analisado faz parte de um banco de dados de dois anos de filmagens das interações de jovens deficientes no grupo terapêutico-fonoaudiológico de uma clínica-escola. Os dados foram transcritos e analisados segundo diretrizes da análise microgenética considerando as minúcias dos acontecimentos, os detalhes e o recorte de episódios interativos, sendo o exame orientado para o funcionamento dos sujeitos, as relações intersubjetivas e as condições sociais da situação. As análises realizadas procuraram relacionar a imagem que esses sujeitos têm de si com a imagem transmitida pelo grupo social do qual eles fazem parte. Os resultados mostraram a ressonância do discurso do grupo social nos dizeres dos sujeitos. Concluímos que para transformar a imagem que os sujeitos deficientes mentais têm de si mesmos, precisamos ações que incidam sobre aqueles que os rodeiam, ou seja, a família, os amigos, os colegas e o grupo social em geral.

In this study, we consider the personality of our subjects as being shaped by means of their actions being interpreted by others. This happens via the internalization of roles. These roles are defined, in the first instance, by those persons who provide the most concrete reference points for the child, in particular their family, and beyond that by the wider social group to which they belong. Our objective was to reflect upon the formation of the personal identity of mentally disabled young people who were receiving speech therapy, this therapy being conducted in a group context. Transcripts of the language used by the subjects in constructing their self image were analyzed. This study was based upon the results obtained from previous research, conducted with groups of siblings of subjects classified as mentally disabled. These results revealed a negative image held by those siblings of their disabled brother or sister. The material analyzed is part of a data bank of videotapes, of disabled youngsters receiving group speech therapy in a school clinic setting, taken over a two year period. This data was transcribed and analyzed according to the guidelines of micro genetic analysis, taking into consideration minute details of interviews and in particular details and clips of interactive episodes. The examination of the data was directed towards the actions of the subjects of the study, their interpersonal relations and the social context in which these took place. The analysis conducted in this study aims to establish a relationship between the images these subjects have of themselves and the image put across by the social group to which they belong. The results demonstrated the resonance of the discourse of the social group in the verbalizations of the subjects. We conclude that to transform the image that the subjects with intellectual disability have of themselves it is necessary to direct actions to those who are close to them, namely...