Renal health: Evaluation of the spontaneous use of a new m-health technology and validation of its content to support patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide public health problem, with a high prevalence of patients on dialysis. mHealth technologies can greatly support the treatment and monitoring of these patients. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the spontaneous use of the application (app) Renal Health, a previously available technology, for patients on hemodialysis and validate content to support patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. METHODS: The first stage consisted of evaluating the spontaneous use of the app, and the second stage consisted of methodological research for the development, evaluation, and improvement of a technological instrument for use in clinical practice as a support for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). The association between categorical variables was performed using the chi-square test, adopting a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The app was accessed by 753 users and of these, 34 % accessed the hemodialysis section. Most accesses were in the state of São Paulo/Brazil and performed by women. The records of biochemical tests did not vary according to gender and age group (p > 0.05). The developed and validated PD section enables section control, allowing the user to manage their sessions. The analysis of the technology by the specialists showed good results for the global content validity index (CVI) regarding objectives (CVI = 0.95), structure (CVI = 0.97), and relevance (CVI = 1.0). CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the hemodialysis section of the Renal Health app aroused the interest of the population and that the developed peritoneal dialysis section was validated by specialists.

Milligram scale enantioresolution of promethazine and its main metabolites, determination of their absolute configuration and assessment of enantioselective effects on human SY-SY5Y cells.

The misuse of pharmaceuticals has significantly increased in recent decades, becoming a major public health concern. The risks associated with medication misuse are particularly high in cases of overdose, especially when the active substances are chiral, as enantioselectivity plays an important role in toxicity. Promethazine (PMZ) is a chiral antihistamine marketed as a racemate and it is misused in "Purple Drank", a recreational drug beverage, that combines codeine and/or PMZ, with soda or alcohol leading to serious health consequences and fatalities in consumers around the world, particularly among teenagers. Information regarding the enantioselectivity in the toxicity of (R,S)-PMZ and its main metabolites, namely promethazine sulfoxide (PMZSO) and desmonomethyl promethazine (DMPMZ), is unknown. This work reported, for the first time, the enantioseparation, in milligram scale, of (R,S)-PMZ, (R,S)-DMPMZ, (R,S)- PMZSO and the determination of their absolute configurations by electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The enantioseparation of all the six enantiomers was accomplished in a homemade semi-preparative column with amylose tris-3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate (AD) coated with aminopropyl Nucleosil silica. The enantiomeric purity was evaluated using the analytical Lux® 3 µm i-Amylose-3 column, yielding enantiomeric purity values ranging between 94.4% and 99.7%. The elution order of all the enantiomers was accomplished combining the ECD results with an optical rotation detector. The elution order of the enantiomers was influenced only by the chiral selector, rather than the mobile phase. The cytotoxicity of the racemates and the isolated enantiomers towards differentiated SH-SY5Y cells was evaluated. (R,S)-DMPMZ exhibited a significantly higher cytotoxicity than (R,S)-PMZ, suggesting the metabolic bioactivation of (R,S)-PMZ. Conversely, no significant cytotoxicity was found for (R,S)-PMZSO, underscoring a metabolic detoxification pathway. Remarkably, enantioselectivity was observed for the cytotoxicity of PMZ; (R)-PMZ was significantly more cytotoxic than (S)-PMZ. The results underscore the importance to isolate the enantiomers in their enantiomerically form and their correct identification for toxicity enantioselectivity studies, which are vital to understand the drug's behaviour and safety, especially in case of overdoses.

Serum myostatin as a candidate disease severity and progression biomarker of spinal muscular atrophy.

The identification of biomarkers for spinal muscular atrophy is crucial for predicting disease progression, severity, and response to new disease-modifying therapies. This study aimed to investigate the role of serum levels of myostatin and follistatin as biomarkers for spinal muscular atrophy, considering muscle atrophy secondary to denervation as the main clinical manifestation of the disease. The study evaluated the differential gene expression of myostatin and follistatin in a lesional model of gastrocnemius denervation in mice, as well as in a meta-analysis of three datasets in transgenic mice models of spinal muscular atrophy, and in two studies involving humans with spinal muscular atrophy. Subsequently, a case-control study involving 27 spinal muscular atrophy patients and 27 controls was conducted, followed by a 12-month cohort study with 25 spinal muscular atrophy cases. Serum levels of myostatin and follistatin were analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at a single centre in southern Brazil. Skeletal muscle gene expression of myostatin decreased and of follistatin increased following lesional muscle denervation in mice, consistent with findings in the spinal muscular atrophy transgenic mice meta-analysis and in the iliopsoas muscle of five patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 1. Median serum myostatin levels were significantly lower in spinal muscular atrophy patients (98 pg/mL; 5-157) compared to controls (412 pg/mL; 299-730) (P < 0.001). Lower myostatin levels were associated with greater disease severity based on clinician-rated outcomes (Rho = 0.493-0.812; P < 0.05). After 12 months, there was a further reduction in myostatin levels among spinal muscular atrophy cases (P = 0.021). Follistatin levels did not differ between cases and controls, and no significant changes were observed over time. The follistatin:myostatin ratio was significantly increased in spinal muscular atrophy subjects and inversely correlated with motor severity. Serum myostatin levels show promise as a novel biomarker for evaluating the severity and progression of spinal muscular atrophy. The decrease in myostatin levels and the subsequent favourable environment for muscle growth may be attributed to denervation caused by motor neuron dysfunction.

Revisiting anthelmintic resistance in sheep flocks from São Paulo State, Brazil.

Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis are the most important gastrointestinal nematodes causing serious losses in sheep production of tropical and subtropical regions. Prophylaxis of gastrointestinal nematode infections is based on anthelmintics use, but their frequent administration selects multiple-resistant parasites. To evaluate how the situation has changed over the last decades, the anthelmintic resistance status of gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep flocks was assessed in the current study and compared to previous surveys. In each one of the 15 flocks evaluated, animals (n ≥ 7) were allocated into at least five groups and treated as follows: 1) untreated control; 2) albendazole; 3) levamisole; 4) ivermectin; and 5) monepantel. If more animals were available, two additional groups were included: 6) closantel, and 7) moxidectin. The faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) was carried out to evaluate the pre- and post-treatment using the SHINY tool. Haemonchus spp. was the most prevalent nematode from faecal cultures. The mean efficacy of albendazole was 40%. Only in two farms, levamisole presented a relatively high percentage of reduction in the FECRT about 90%, while ivermectin and moxidectin presented the worst mean efficacy of 34% and 21% among all farms, respectively. Like other anthelmintics, closantel demonstrated low efficacy (63%) across all farms evaluated. Monepantel presented an overall mean efficacy of 79%, but it was the only anthelmintic that presented efficacy ≥95%, in five farms. The results revealed that gastrointestinal nematodes with multiple anthelmintic resistance were prevalent in all 15 sheep herds. The research suggests that nematodes are becoming more and more resistant to various anthelmintic compounds, which has made the problem worse. This circumstance highlights the necessity to put into practice sustainable and long-lasting methods to prevent gastrointestinal nematode infections in sheep husbandry.

7.1',8.3'- and 7.3',8.5'-Connected Bicyclo[3.2.1]octanoids and Oxabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane-Type Neolignans from Ocotea aciphylla: Structures and Absolute Configurations.

The phytochemical investigation of the leaves and trunk bark of a specimen of Ocotea aciphylla collected in the southern portion of the Amazon forest led to the isolation of an oxabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane-type neolignan and 15 bicyclo[3.2.1]octanoid neolignans, 14 of which are unreported compounds (2-15), including one with an unusual oxidation pattern of the side chain at C-1' and two rare 7.1',8.3'-connected bicyclo[3.2.1]octanoid derivatives. Their structures and relative configurations were determined by extensive spectrometric analysis based on 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy and HRESIMS data, while their absolute configurations were unambiguously assigned using electronic and vibrational circular dichroism data assisted by density functional theory calculations. Additionally, known sesquiterpenes, phenylpropanoids, and phytosterols were also isolated.

Oral health challenges in patients with chronic kidney disease: A comprehensive clinical assessment.

Loss of kidney function causes oral manifestations and multiple complications that have implications for dental treatment and patients' systemic conditions. We aimed to determine the clinical condition, epidemiological profile, and incidence of dental caries in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was an observational, cross-sectional, field study using a quantitative and epidemiological approach. The sample consisted of 45 randomly selected patients with CKD from a total of 114 patients. Data were collected through oral clinical examination, anamnesis, and medical records compiled in a clinical file specially developed for this research. Clinical evaluation was performed, including a Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index examination. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Mann-Whitney test, and Spearman's rho coefficient. All analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software version 20.0, with a confidence interval of 95 % and significance level of 5 % (p < 0.05). The results indicated that CKD is more prevalent in the 5th decade of life, with a slight predilection for men. Oral cavity alterations were observed in 77.8 % of patients. The study population had a very high DMFT index, with a high number of missing teeth and a low number of decayed and filled teeth. Poor oral health in patients with CKD indicates a lack of care that supports the necessity of installing a preventive and therapeutic oral program and a regular follow-up aimed at this group of patients.

DMRT3 Allele Frequencies in Batida- and Picada-Gaited Donkeys and Mules in Brazil.

In Brazil, the production of mules with a comfortable gait primarily involves the breeding of marching saddle mules. This is achieved by crossing gaited Pêga donkeys with horses from the Mangalarga Marchador and Campolina breeds. The DMRT3:g.22999655C>A SNP is implicated in regulating gait phenotypes observed in various horse breeds, including the batida (CC) and picada (CA) gaits found in these horse breeds. We aimed to determine if genotypes influenced gait type in 159 mules and 203 donkeys genotyped for the DMRT3 SNP by PCR-RFLP analysis. About 47% of mules had the CC-genotype, while 53% had the CA-genotype. Donkeys predominantly had the CC-genotype (97%), and none had AA. Both CC- and CA-genotypes were evenly distributed among mules with the batida or picada gaits. In donkeys, the CC-genotype frequencies were consistent regardless of gait type. However, the CA-genotype was more common in picada-gaited donkeys than in batida-gaited donkeys. The prevalence of CA mules and the rare presence of the non-reference allele in donkeys align with previous findings in Mangalarga Marchador and Campolina horses. This suggests that the non-reference allele likely originated from the mares involved in donkey crosses. Our results also imply that factors beyond this variant, such as other genes and polymorphisms, influence gait traits in equids.

Abomasal RNA-seq reveals a strong local cellular response in suckling lambs with resistance against Haemonchus contortus.

Santa Ines (SI) and Ile de France (IF) sheep are known to be resistant and susceptible to Haemonchus contortus infection, respectively. Several studies have shown some genes as potential biological markers for sheep resistance against gastrointestinal nematodes using molecular tools, including transcriptomic analysis. In this study, we sequenced the polyadenylated RNA of the abomasal tissue of SI and IF suckling lambs to identify mucosa-specific transcript alterations between breeds artificially infected with H. contortus. Naïve SI (n = 4) and IF (n = 4) lambs were artificially infected every other day, over a period of 52 days, from 14 to 66 days old, with a total of 5,400 H. contortus infective larvae. Fundic abomasal tissue samples were collected at 68 days old, and submitted to high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Differential expression analysis (P value < 0.001 and False Discovery Rate (FDR) < 0.05) between SI and IF samples identified 292 genes, most of which showed greater expression in SI lambs. To help annotate and assign possible function to differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we used previously available single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) data from ovine abomasal mucosa to putatively identify cell types and possible mechanisms involved in resistance to H. contortus. In particular, genes associated with endothelial and tuft cells showed the greatest increases in expression in SI relative to IF lambs. SI lambs had higher percentages of tuft cells than IF lambs in the fundic abomasal mucosa. Although we found innate immunity (cell-mediated in mucosa) acting as a protagonist in impairing H. contortus infection, a stronger acquired immune response was being modulated at an earlier stage by SI lambs. We suggest that the complex connection between innate and adaptive immunity is via cellular antigen processing and presentation (APP). Based on comparison with scRNA-seq data, SI lambs showed a robust APP mechanism characterized mainly by greater T cell APP, macrophage differentiation, and cytokine signalling. We identified potential mechanisms and markers to advance knowledge for selection of H. contortus resistance at a very early age, in SI as well as in other commercial sheep breeds.

Attenuation of wind intensities exacerbates anoxic conditions leading to sulfur plume development off the coast of Peru.

The release of vast quantities of sulfide from the sediment into the water column, known as a sulfidic event, has detrimental consequences on fish catches, including downstream effects on other linked element cycles. Despite being frequent occurrences in marine upwelling regions, our understanding of the factors that moderate sulfidic event formation and termination are still rudimentary. Here, we examined the biogeochemical and hydrodynamic conditions that underpinned the formation/termination of one of the largest sulfur plumes to be reported in the Peruvian upwelling zone. Consistent with previous research, we find that the sulfur-rich plume arose during the austral summer when anoxic conditions (i.e., oxygen and nitrate depletion) prevailed in waters overlying the upper shelf. Furthermore, the shelf sediments were organically charged and characterized by low iron-bound sulfur concentrations, further enabling the diffusion of benthic-generated sulfide into the water column. While these biogeochemical conditions provided a predicate to sulfidic event formation, we highlight that attenuations in local wind intensity served as an event trigger. Namely, interruptions in local wind speed constrained upwelling intensity, causing increased stratification over the upper shelf. Moreover, disturbances in local wind patterns likely placed additional constraints on wind-driven mesoscale eddy propagation, with feedback effects on coastal elemental sulfur plume (ESP) formation. We suggest ESP development occurs as a result of a complex interaction of biogeochemistry with regional hydrodynamics.

[Assessment of the implementation of an care teleregulation project in a Brazilian capital city]. / Avaliação da implantação de um projeto de telerregulação assistencial em uma capital brasileira.

This study evaluates the degree of implementation (DI) of the Regulates+ Brazil project and analyzes to what extent the variations in implementation influence the results observed in access to specialized appointments in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. This is an evaluative research of implementation analysis. A logic model and an analysis and judgment matrix with indicators for evaluating the degree of implementation and the results of the Project were developed and submitted to expert consensus. The data collection was conducted via a semi-structured questionnaire applied to key informants and secondary data extracted from the official documents from Regulates+ Brazil and Brazilian National Regulation System (SISREG), referring to the period from May/2020 to May/2021, which were consolidated and compared with values defined in the matrix. The degree of implementation of the Regulates+ Brazil project in Recife was considered to be implemented (83.7%), as well as the Structure (81.7%) and Methods (84.6%) dimensions. However, most effect indicators underperformed, which, when confronted, were consistent with bottlenecks observed in some components and subcomponents of the Project, such as the performance of professionals in basic health units, which was indicated as incipient, especially regarding follow-up of returned requests. The results suggest that any intervention in Telehealth requires, for its proper implementation, the adequacy of teams and work processes, practices of Continuing Education, as well as a continuous evaluation process, to achieve the expected results, or else it will become another bureaucratization and barrier to access.

Os objetivos foram avaliar o grau de implantação do projeto Regula+ Brasil e analisar em que medida as variações da implantação influenciam nos resultados observados no acesso a consultas especializadas em Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. Trata-se de uma pesquisa avaliativa de análise de implantação. Foram elaborados o modelo lógico e a matriz de análise e julgamento com os indicadores para avaliação do grau de implantação e de resultado do projeto, os quais foram submetidos ao consenso de especialistas. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de questionário semiestruturado, aplicado com informantes-chave, e dados secundários extraídos dos documentos oficiais do projeto e do Sistema Nacional de Regulação (SISREG), referentes ao período de maio de 2020 a maio de 2021, os quais foram consolidados e comparados com valores definidos na matriz. O grau de implantação do projeto Regula+ Brasil em Recife foi considerado implantado (83,7%), bem como as dimensões Estrutura (81,7%) e Processo (84,6%). Entretanto, a maioria dos seus indicadores de efeito obtiveram desempenho insatisfatório. Quando confrontados, guardaram coerência com gargalos observados em alguns componentes e subcomponentes do projeto, como a atuação dos profissionais das unidades básicas de saúde (UBS), apontada como incipiente, principalmente no que diz respeito ao acompanhamento das solicitações devolvidas. Os resultados sugerem que qualquer intervenção em telessaúde requer, para sua devida implantação e para o alcance dos resultados esperados, adequação das equipes e dos processos de trabalho, práticas de educação permanente e processo contínuo de avaliação, ou então se configurará em nova burocratização e barreira de acesso.

El objetivo fue evaluar el grado de implementación del proyecto Regula+ Brasil y analizar en qué medida las variaciones de la implementación influyen en los resultados observados en el acceso a consultas especializadas en Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. Se trata de una investigación evaluativa del análisis de la implantación. Se elaboró un modelo lógico y una matriz de análisis y juicio con los indicadores para la evaluación de la grado de implementación y el resultado del Proyecto, los cuales se sometieron al consenso de especialistas. La recopilación de datos se realizó por medio de un cuestionario semiestructurado aplicado con informantes clave y datos secundarios extraídos de documentos oficiales del Regula+ Brasil y del Sistema Nacional de Regulación (SISREG), relativos al período de mayo de 2020 a mayo de 2021, los cuales fueron consolidados y comparados con valores definidos en el matriz. El grado de implementación del proyecto Regula+ Brasil en Recife fue considerado implementado (83,7%), así como las dimensiones Estructura (81,7%) y Proceso (84,6%). Sin embargo, la mayoría de sus indicadores de efecto obtuvieron un desempeño insatisfactorio, los cuales, al ser confrontados, fueron coherentes con los cuellos de botella observados en algunos componentes y subcomponentes del Proyecto, como el desempeño de los profesionales de las unidades básicas de salud, señalada como incipiente, sobre todo en lo que respecta al seguimiento de las solicitudes devueltas. Los resultados sugieren que toda intervención en Telesalud requiere, para su debida implantación, la adecuación de los equipos y de los procesos de trabajo, prácticas de Educación Permanente, así como un proceso continuo de evaluación, para alcanzar los resultados esperados, o entonces se configurará en una nueva burocratización y barrera de acceso.

Population knowledge on chronic kidney disease, its risk factors and means of prevention: a population-based study in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil / Conhecimento da população sobre a doença renal crônica, seus fatores de risco e meios de prevenção: um estudo de base populacional em Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been increasing significantly. There is evidence that a large part of the population does not have enough knowledge on the subject. Objective: To investigate the level of knowledge about CKD in the general population, its risk factors and means of prevention. Methods: We ran a cross-sectional study in the population of Fortaleza, Ceará - Brazil, between 2017 and 2020, with the application of a questionnaire on CKD, risk factors and prevention. Results: we interviewed 735 volunteers, with a mean age of 38 years, of which 55% were female. Only 17.2% correctly responded to the concept of CKD, and 5.8% knew the concept of creatinine. Low water intake was the most cited risk factor by respondents (79.3%). The main risk factors and direct causes of CKD (diabetes and hypertension) were mentioned less frequently (13.2% and 15.1%, respectively). Men were more correct regarding risk factors and ways to prevent CKD. Older respondents answered more correctly the questions about the definition of CKD (n = 22; 28.6%) and creatinine (n = 7; 9.0%). With regards to education there was a statistically significant correlation in all the questions (p < 0.05). Conclusion: There is little knowledge about CKD in the general population. Higher level of education is associated with better knowledge. More health education actions are needed so that the population becomes better acquainted with CKD and, consequently, can adopt more adequate prevention and control measures.

Resumo Introdução: A doença renal crônica (DRC) vem aumentando de forma significativa. Há evidências de que grande parte da população não tem conhecimento suficiente sobre o assunto. Objetivo: Investigar na população geral o nível de conhecimento sobre a DRC, seus fatores de risco e meios de prevenção. Métodos: Foi realizado estudo transversal na população de Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil, entre 2017 e 2020, com aplicação de um questionário sobre DRC, fatores de risco e prevenção. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 735 voluntários, com média de idade de 38 anos, dos quais 55% eram do sexo feminino. Apenas 17,2% responderam corretamente ao conceito de DRC, e 5,8% sabiam o conceito de creatinina. A baixa ingestão hídrica foi o fator de risco mais citado pelos entrevistados (79,3%). Os principais fatores de risco e as causas diretas de DRC (diabetes e hipertensão) foram mencionados com menor frequência (13,2% e 15,1%, respectivamente). Os homens tiveram maior acerto com relação aos fatores de risco e às formas de prevenção da DRC. Os entrevistados com idade mais avançada responderam mais corretamente às perguntas sobre a definição de DRC (n = 22; 28,6%) e creatinina (n = 7; 9,0%). No que diz respeito à escolaridade, em todas as perguntas houve correlação estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Há um baixo nível de conhecimento sobre a DRC na população geral. Maior nível de escolaridade associa-se a um melhor conhecimento. São necessárias mais ações de educação em saúde para que a população conheça melhor a DRC e consequentemente possa adotar medidas de prevenção e controle mais adequadas.

In Silico Evaluation of the Binding Energies of Androgen Receptor Agonists in Wild-Type and Mutational Models.

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are substances with androgenic and anabolic characteristics. Among the many side effects of hormone therapy with AAS, the following stand out: heart problems, adrenal gland disorders, aggressive behavior, increased risk of prostate cancer, problems related to lack of libido and impotence. Such substances vary in the relationship between androgenic activity, and the activation of the androgen receptor (AR) is of fundamental importance for the singularity of the action of each AAS. In this sense, our study evaluates the aspects that comprise the interactions of testosterone agonists (TES), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and tetrahydrogestrinone (THG) in complex with the AR. In addition, we also evaluated the impact of ligand-receptor affinity differences in a mutation model. We apply computational techniques based on density functional theory (DFT) and use, as methodology, Molecular Fractionation with Conjugate Caps (MFCC). The energetic specificities present in the interaction between the analyzed complexes attest that the highest affinity with the AR receptor is found for AR-THG, followed by AR-DHT, AR-TES and AR-T877A-DHT, respectively. Our results also show the differences and equivalences between the different agonists, in addition to evaluating the difference between the DHT ligand in complex with the wild-type and mutant receptor, presenting the main amino acid residues that involve the interaction with the ligands. The computational methodology used proves to be an operative and sophisticated choice to help in the search for pharmacological agents for various therapies that have androgen as a target.

Influence of targeted selective anthelmintic treatment on the productive performance of wool and hair lambs naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes in Brazil.

Targeted selective treatment (TST) is an alternative method to reduce the use of anthelmintics and delay the development of resistant nematode populations. However, there is limited information on the actual effects of this type of treatment on livestock productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production performance of Santa Ines (hair) and Ile de France (wool) lambs naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) under TST based on packed cell volume (PCV) versus suppressive anthelmintic treatments. Thirty-eight lambs were divided into two treatment groups: Suppressive treatment, animals were drenched with monepantel every two weeks and TST, animals were treated with the same anthelmintic when they presented PCV ≤ 20%. Feces, blood, and weight were measured weekly to determine eggs per gram of feces, PCV, total plasma protein, and weight gain. After animals were slaughtered, carcasses were weighed to determine carcass yield. In the TST group, substantial productive losses of approximately 21.3% in the wool and 25.9% in the hair lambs were observed in body weight compared to their counterparts. Significant differences in hematological variables occurred over the experimental period, especially in the wool lambs under TST. Favorable environmental conditions enabled infective larvae to survive and thrive on pasture. Haemonchus contortus and intestinal nematodes were the most common parasites found in the Ile de France lambs and the Santa Ines lambs, respectively. Although TST prevented mortality, it did not prevent production losses. Both breeds showed a significant drop in production due to GIN parasitism.

Metals in seston from Cabo Frio Bay, a region under the influence of upwelling in SE-Brazil.

This study, performed during 2003-2005 and 2008-2009, investigated metals (Al, Fe, Ba, Zn, Mn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Cd) content in seston at Cabo Frio Bay, SE-Brazil. This study may serve as a baseline of seston metal distribution to guide biogeochemical and ecological models. The seston fractions (> 20 µm, > 64 µm, > 100 µm, and > 150 µm) were sampled in sub-surface horizontal hauls. Metals were determined by ICP-MS. The metals range: Al (62.5-56,867.6 µg g-1), Fe (23.5-25,384.0 µg g-1), Mn (2.7-336.8 µg g-1), Ba (< 0.005-356.3 µg g-1), Zn (0.5-94.2 µg g-1), Cr (0.7-35.5 µg g-1), Cu (4.3-41.7 µg g-1), Ni (< 0.005-19.1 µg g-1) and Cd (< 0.0004-2.4 µg g-1). Aluminium, Fe, Mn, Ba, and Zn showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the seston fraction. The results obtained in this study suggest that the elements (Fe, Mn, Ba) in the seston were strongly influenced by the abiogenic source. In contrast, Zn, Cd, Cu, Cr, and Ni can be biogenic/anthropogenic sources. The significant positive linear correlation of Zn:P, Cd:P, and Cu:P can indicate an intracellular concentration higher than the external adsorption in the plankton community.

Population knowledge on chronic kidney disease, its risk factors and means of prevention: a population-based study in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been increasing significantly. There is evidence that a large part of the population does not have enough knowledge on the subject. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the level of knowledge about CKD in the general population, its risk factors and means of prevention. METHODS: We ran a cross-sectional study in the population of Fortaleza, Ceará - Brazil, between 2017 and 2020, with the application of a questionnaire on CKD, risk factors and prevention. RESULTS: we interviewed 735 volunteers, with a mean age of 38 years, of which 55% were female. Only 17.2% correctly responded to the concept of CKD, and 5.8% knew the concept of creatinine. Low water intake was the most cited risk factor by respondents (79.3%). The main risk factors and direct causes of CKD (diabetes and hypertension) were mentioned less frequently (13.2% and 15.1%, respectively). Men were more correct regarding risk factors and ways to prevent CKD. Older respondents answered more correctly the questions about the definition of CKD (n = 22; 28.6%) and creatinine (n = 7; 9.0%). With regards to education there was a statistically significant correlation in all the questions (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: There is little knowledge about CKD in the general population. Higher level of education is associated with better knowledge. More health education actions are needed so that the population becomes better acquainted with CKD and, consequently, can adopt more adequate prevention and control measures.

Planificação da atenção à saúde: implantação dos macroprocessos de trabalho em quatro localidades brasileiras / Health care planning: implementation of work macroprocesses in four Brazilian locations / Planificación de la atención en salud: implementación de macroprocesos de trabajo en cuatro lugares brasileños

RESUMO: A insuficiente articulação entre a Atenção Primária à Saúde e a Atenção Ambulatorial Especializada é vista como um dos principais obstáculos para a organização de sistemas integrados de saúde. Este estudo objetivou analisar a implantação dos macroprocessos da Atenção Primária à Saúde e da Atenção Ambulatorial Especializada nos municípios de Caxias (Maranhão) e Ji-Paraná (Rondônia) e na Região Leste do Distrito Federal, e apenas da Atenção Primária à Saúde no município de Cristalina (Goiás). As dimensões consideradas foram: Planejamento e Gestão; Promoção e Cuidado à Saúde; Apoio Diagnóstico e Terapêutico; e Articulação entre Níveis Assistenciais. O índice de implantação da Atenção Primária à Saúde de Caxias foi 'satisfatório', o de Cristalina, 'intermediário'; e o de Ji-Paraná e da Região Leste, 'incipiente'. Na Atenção Primária à Saúde, os melhores resultados foram de Planejamento e Gestão e Promoção e Cuidado à Saúde; e o mais frágil, de Articulação entre Níveis Assistenciais. Em relação à Atenção Ambulatorial Especializada, os melhores resultados foram de Planejamento e Gestão, e as maiores fragilidades foram encontradas em Apoio Diagnóstico e Terapêutico. Este estudo pode contribuir para mudanças nos casos estudados, bem como apresentar as lições aprendidas para outros cenários cuja planificação esteja em fase de implantação atual ou futura.

ABSTRACT: The insufficient articulation between Primary Health Care and Specialized Ambulatory Care has been seen as one of the main obstacles to the organization of integrated health systems. This study aimed to evaluate of the implementation of Primary Health Care macro-processes was carried out in the municipalities of Caxias (Northern Brazil), Cristalina and Ji-Paraná (both Central-Western Brazil) and in the East Region of the Brazilian Federal District; and the Specialized Ambulatory Care in two municipalities - Caxias and Ji-Paraná - and in the East Federal District Region. Were considered the dimensions: Planning and management; Health promotion and care; Diagnostic and Therapeutic Support; and Articulation between care levels. The index of implementation of the Primary Health Care of Caxias was 'satisfactory' (8.54), Cristalina 'intermediate' (7.83) and Ji-Paraná and East Region 'incipient' (7.18 and 7.24, respectively). In Primary Health Care, the best results came from 'Planning and management' and 'Health promotion and care'; and the most fragile, the 'Articulation between levels of care'. Regarding Specialized Ambulatory Care, the best results were from 'Planning and management' and greater weaknesses were found in 'Diagnostic and therapeutic support'. This study can contribute to changes in the cases presented, as well as offer lessons learned for other scenarios whose planning is in the implementation phase or will be implemented.

RESUMEN: La insuficiente articulación entre la Atención Primaria de Salud y la Atención Ambulatoria Especializada ha sido vista como uno de los principales obstáculos para la organización de sistemas integrados de salud. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la implementación de los macroprocesos de Atención Primaria de Salud en los municipios de Caxias (Norte de Brasil), Cristalina y Ji-Paraná (ambos en Centro-Oeste de Brasil) y en la Región Este del Districto Federal Brasileño; y la Atención Ambulatoria Especializada en dos municipios - Caxias y Ji-Paraná - y en la Región Este del Districto Federal. Se consideraron las dimensiones Planificación y gestión; Promoción y atención de la salud; Apoyo Diagnóstico y Terapéutico; y Articulación entre niveles de atención. El índice de implementación del Atención Primaria de Salud de Caxias fue 'satisfactorio' (8,54), Cristalina 'intermedio' (7,83) y Ji-Paraná y Región Este 'incipiente' (7,18 y 7,24, respectivamente). En APS, los mejores resultados provinieron de 'Planificación y gestión' y 'Promoción y atención de la salud'; y la más frágil, la 'Articulación entre niveles de asistencia'. En cuanto a la AAE, los mejores resultados fueron de 'Planificación y gestión' y las mayores debilidades se encontraron en 'Apoyo diagnóstico y terapéutico'. Este estudio puede contribuir a cambios en los casos presentados, así como ofrecer lecciones aprendidas para otros escenarios cuya planificación se encuentra en fase de implementación o será implementada.

Avaliação da implantação de um projeto de telerregulação assistencial em uma capital brasileira / Assessment of the implementation of an care teleregulation project in a Brazilian capital city / Evaluación de la implementación de un proyecto de telerregulación asistencial en una capital brasileña

Resumo: Os objetivos foram avaliar o grau de implantação do projeto Regula+ Brasil e analisar em que medida as variações da implantação influenciam nos resultados observados no acesso a consultas especializadas em Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. Trata-se de uma pesquisa avaliativa de análise de implantação. Foram elaborados o modelo lógico e a matriz de análise e julgamento com os indicadores para avaliação do grau de implantação e de resultado do projeto, os quais foram submetidos ao consenso de especialistas. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de questionário semiestruturado, aplicado com informantes-chave, e dados secundários extraídos dos documentos oficiais do projeto e do Sistema Nacional de Regulação (SISREG), referentes ao período de maio de 2020 a maio de 2021, os quais foram consolidados e comparados com valores definidos na matriz. O grau de implantação do projeto Regula+ Brasil em Recife foi considerado implantado (83,7%), bem como as dimensões Estrutura (81,7%) e Processo (84,6%). Entretanto, a maioria dos seus indicadores de efeito obtiveram desempenho insatisfatório. Quando confrontados, guardaram coerência com gargalos observados em alguns componentes e subcomponentes do projeto, como a atuação dos profissionais das unidades básicas de saúde (UBS), apontada como incipiente, principalmente no que diz respeito ao acompanhamento das solicitações devolvidas. Os resultados sugerem que qualquer intervenção em telessaúde requer, para sua devida implantação e para o alcance dos resultados esperados, adequação das equipes e dos processos de trabalho, práticas de educação permanente e processo contínuo de avaliação, ou então se configurará em nova burocratização e barreira de acesso.

Abstract: This study evaluates the degree of implementation (DI) of the Regulates+ Brazil project and analyzes to what extent the variations in implementation influence the results observed in access to specialized appointments in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. This is an evaluative research of implementation analysis. A logic model and an analysis and judgment matrix with indicators for evaluating the degree of implementation and the results of the Project were developed and submitted to expert consensus. The data collection was conducted via a semi-structured questionnaire applied to key informants and secondary data extracted from the official documents from Regulates+ Brazil and Brazilian National Regulation System (SISREG), referring to the period from May/2020 to May/2021, which were consolidated and compared with values defined in the matrix. The degree of implementation of the Regulates+ Brazil project in Recife was considered to be implemented (83.7%), as well as the Structure (81.7%) and Methods (84.6%) dimensions. However, most effect indicators underperformed, which, when confronted, were consistent with bottlenecks observed in some components and subcomponents of the Project, such as the performance of professionals in basic health units, which was indicated as incipient, especially regarding follow-up of returned requests. The results suggest that any intervention in Telehealth requires, for its proper implementation, the adequacy of teams and work processes, practices of Continuing Education, as well as a continuous evaluation process, to achieve the expected results, or else it will become another bureaucratization and barrier to access.

Resumen: El objetivo fue evaluar el grado de implementación del proyecto Regula+ Brasil y analizar en qué medida las variaciones de la implementación influyen en los resultados observados en el acceso a consultas especializadas en Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. Se trata de una investigación evaluativa del análisis de la implantación. Se elaboró un modelo lógico y una matriz de análisis y juicio con los indicadores para la evaluación de la grado de implementación y el resultado del Proyecto, los cuales se sometieron al consenso de especialistas. La recopilación de datos se realizó por medio de un cuestionario semiestructurado aplicado con informantes clave y datos secundarios extraídos de documentos oficiales del Regula+ Brasil y del Sistema Nacional de Regulación (SISREG), relativos al período de mayo de 2020 a mayo de 2021, los cuales fueron consolidados y comparados con valores definidos en el matriz. El grado de implementación del proyecto Regula+ Brasil en Recife fue considerado implementado (83,7%), así como las dimensiones Estructura (81,7%) y Proceso (84,6%). Sin embargo, la mayoría de sus indicadores de efecto obtuvieron un desempeño insatisfactorio, los cuales, al ser confrontados, fueron coherentes con los cuellos de botella observados en algunos componentes y subcomponentes del Proyecto, como el desempeño de los profesionales de las unidades básicas de salud, señalada como incipiente, sobre todo en lo que respecta al seguimiento de las solicitudes devueltas. Los resultados sugieren que toda intervención en Telesalud requiere, para su debida implantación, la adecuación de los equipos y de los procesos de trabajo, prácticas de Educación Permanente, así como un proceso continuo de evaluación, para alcanzar los resultados esperados, o entonces se configurará en una nueva burocratización y barrera de acceso.

A Case of Anti-Caspr2 Autoimmune Encephalitis Associated with Adenocarcinoma of the Lung.

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is an inflammatory brain condition with multiple aetiologies but is mainly associated with paraneoplastic syndromes. Several antibodies described in AIE are being investigated in relation to different cancers, including antibodies against Contactin-associated protein-like 2 (Caspr2), which have been associated with thymoma but very rarely with lung cancer. The authors present the case of a 72-year-old man with cardiovascular risk factors, who presented with a 3-week history of left hemichorea following a first unprovoked seizure the week before, with no other signs or symptoms. The patient was submitted to extensive aetiological investigation, testing positive for anti-Caspr2 antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid. AIE was diagnosed after other possible causes had been excluded. A PET scan showed signs of abnormal metabolism, with a lung biopsy confirming lung adenocarcinoma. This case highlights a very rare association and the importance of a thorough aetiological investigation for neurological complaints. LEARNING POINTS: Neurological complaints require a thorough aetiological investigation, and positive findings on imaging studies must be carefully examined.Anti-Caspr2 antibodies are classically associated with Morvan syndrome, but other neurological presentations must also be considered.Anti-Caspr2 autoimmune encephalitis may be the primary presentation of lung adenocarcinoma.