The Perspective of Brazilian Women Orthopaedic Surgeons on Gender Discrimination: Initial Insights to Understand Gender Bias in the Brazilian Healthcare System.

Despite the societal progress made in recent years, gender discrimination is still common in healthcare, especially in some surgical specialties such as orthopaedics. In Brazil, where the participation of women in the medical profession has been increasing, little is known about women's perceptions on the issue of gender discrimination. This study aims to examine women orthopaedic surgeons' experiences in dealing with conflict in the workplace and contextualize the impact that gender discrimination has had or currently has on their careers and well-being. As a secondary objective, the work seeks to understand whether there are differences in the perception of the issue among practicing women orthopaedic surgeons and those in training. For a cross-sectional qualitative study, a survey was distributed exclusively to 300 practicing orthopaedic surgeons and orthopaedists in training (residents and fellows). A total of 99 women participated in the survey, of whom 66 were practicing orthopaedic surgeons and 33 were orthopaedists in training. The study showed that women orthopaedic surgeons in training in Brazil have a lower number of publications and a moderate level of involvement in academic society activity. In addition, orthopaedic surgeons in training experience a statistically significantly higher number of conflicts in the workplace. The comments from the questionnaires highlighted the physical and psychological consequences arising from these situations of professional conflict, most frequently occurring with orthopaedic surgeons who are men. Our findings indicate that respondents expressed a feeling of inequality towards women in the workplace, ultimately reducing the level of job satisfaction among female orthopaedic surgeons, which may contribute to disinterest and abandonment of the specialty. The results of this work support recent evidence that there is an implicit and often overlooked bias against the participation of women and ethnic minorities in the orthopaedic community in Brazil.

A prática psicológica e a ludicidade na hospitalização pediátrica: relato de experiência / Psychological practice and playing in pediatric hospitalization: experience report / La práctica psicológica y la ludicidad en la hospitalización pediátrica: informe de experiencia

INTRODUÇÃO: A inserção da psicologia e o método lúdico de intervenção na esfera hospitalar surge para promover bem-estar frente às vivências das crianças em condição de internação. O enfrentamento de uma hospitalização no período da infância pode provocar impactos significativos do ponto de vista orgânico, psíquico e ambiental, por ser um momento de estruturação do indivíduo enquanto sujeito psíquico. OBJETIVO: Posto isso, o presente artigo objetiva refletir sobre a relação da família e da equipe de saúde com crianças hospitalizadas e a relevância da utilização dos recursos lúdicos, a partir de um relato de experiência de estagiários de um curso de graduação em psicologia. MÉTODO: Logo, trata-se de um relato de experiência, de abordagem qualitativa e de natureza descritiva, realizado de março de 2022 a junho de 2023, em uma Unidade Pediátrica de um Hospital Público Brasileiro. RESULTADOS E DISCUSSÃO: A partir disso, observaram-se na prática reações de estranhamento dos pacientes ao se depararem com a permanência no hospital, o adoecimento e os procedimentos das equipes multiprofissionais de saúde; bem como evidenciou-se a importância da transmissão das informações e do preparo verbal ante intervenções, visando a participação ativa do paciente em seu tratamento. Também observou-se a significância do uso de ferramentas lúdicas nas intervenções com as crianças, que facilitam a adaptação ao contexto e proporcionam âncora para estas elaborarem suas vivências. CONCLUSÃO: Portanto, conclui-se que a utilização de recursos lúdicos favorece o atendimento psicológico na infância e período de hospitalização.

INTRODUCTION: The integration of psychology and the playing method of intervention in the hospital setting emerges to promote wellbeing in the face of children's experiences during hospitalization. Confronting hospitalization during childhood can lead to significant impacts from organic, psychological, and environmental standpoints, as it represents a pivotal moment in the individual's psychological development. OBJECTIVE: With this in mind, the present article aims to reflect on the relationship between families and healthcare teams with hospitalized children and the relevance of using playful resources, based on an experience report from interns of an undergraduate psychology course. METHOD: Therefore, it constitutes an experiential account, employing a qualitative and descriptive approach, conducted from March 2022 to June 2023, in a Pediatric Unit of a Brazilian Public Hospital. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: From this perspective, practical observations revealed patients' feelings of unfamiliarity upon facing hospital stays, illness, and procedures performed by multidisciplinary healthcare teams; as well as the significance of conveying information and verbal preparation before interventions was highlighted, aiming to actively involve the patient in their treatment. It was also observed the significance of using playful tools in interventions with children, which facilitates adaptation to the context and provides an anchor for them to elaborate on their experiences. CONCLUSION: Thus, it can be concluded that the use of playful resources enhances psychological care during childhood and the hospitalization period.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La inserción de la psicología y el método lúdico de intervención en el ámbito hospitalario surge con el propósito de promover el bienestar frente a las experiencias de los niños en condiciones de hospitalización. Enfrentar la hospitalización durante la infancia puede generar impactos significativos desde un punto de vista orgánico, psicológico y ambiental, ya que representa un momento de estructuración del individuo como sujeto psíquico. OBJETIVO: En este sentido, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo reflexionar sobre la relación de la familia y el equipo de salud con niños hospitalizados y la relevancia de utilizar recursos lúdicos, a partir de un relato de experiencia de practicantes de un curso de grado en psicología. MÉTODO: Por lo tanto, se trata de un informe de experiencia con enfoque cualitativo y de naturaleza descriptiva, llevado a cabo desde marzo de 2022 hasta junio de 2023 en una Unidad Pediátrica de un Hospital Público Brasileño. RESULTADOS Y DISCUSIÓN: A partir de esto, se observaron reacciones de desconcierto por parte de los pacientes al enfrentar la permanencia en el hospital, la enfermedad y los procedimientos realizados por los equipos de salud multidisciplinarios; así como también se resaltó la importancia de la transmisión de información y la preparación verbal antes de las intervenciones, con el objetivo de involucrar activamente al paciente en su tratamiento. También se observó la importancia del uso de herramientas lúdicas en las intervenciones con niños, ya que facilitan la adaptación al contexto y brindan un punto de referencia para que estos niños elaboren sus experiencias. CONCLUSIÓN: Por lo tanto, se concluye que el uso de recursos lúdicos favorece la atención psicológica durante la infancia y el período de hospitalización.

Catalase and Uric Acid Prevent Morphological Damage to the Sperm Flagella of Colossoma macropomum During 96 Hours at Low Storage Temperatures.

Oxidative stress is one of the main causes of loss of sperm function during chilled storage. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of a fructose-based extender, which was supplemented with catalase or uric acid, on the motility, viability, morphological integrity, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) of Colossoma macropomum spermatozoa. Sperm was diluted in extenders containing catalase (0; 0.1; 0.8; and 1.5 kU/L) or uric acid (0; 0.25; 0.5; and 1.0 mmol/L) and then stored at 4.3 ± 0.6°C for 96 hours. The chilling storage time had more significant and pronounced effects on practically all the measured sperm quality parameters than the different concentrations of both antioxidants added to the extenders. This was true for sperm motility, motility duration, sperm viability, and the percentage of normal spermatozoa. In fact, for all these parameters, values were higher in the extenders supplemented with catalase or uric acid, than those not supplemented with these antioxidants, especially after 96 hours. The LPO process showed an antioxidant-dependent response. In catalase-supplemented extenders thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels increased gradually and significantly with time, but remained stable during the 96 hours of chilled storage in all samples in which uric acid was added. Despite this, TBARS levels were lower in the extenders supplemented with both catalase and uric acid than in those not having these antioxidants. Inverse correlations were found between sperm motility and the damage in sperm flagella. Our findings suggest that the supplementation of an extender with catalase or uric acid is beneficial and protects fish sperm membranes from damage caused by oxidative stress during low-temperature storage. The extenders containing 0.1 kU/L of catalase and 0.25 mmol/L of uric acid provided effective antioxidant protection for the spermatozoa of this important Amazonian fish.

Examination of the interior of sand fly (Diptera: Psychodidae) abdomen reveals novel cuticular structures involved in pheromone release: Discovering the manifold.

The males of many species of New World Phlebotomines produce volatile terpenoid chemicals, shown in Lutzomyia longipalpis s.l. to be sex/aggregation pheromones. Pheromone is produced by secretory cells which surround a cuticular reservoir which collects the pheromone and passes it through a cuticular duct to the surface of the insect. The pheromone then passes through specialised cuticular structures on the abdominal surface prior to evaporation. The shape and distribution of the specialised structures are highly diverse and differ according to species. In this study we used SEM to examine the interior cuticular pheromone collection and transport structures of 3 members of the Lu. longipalpis s.l. species complex and Migonemyia migonei. We found a new structure which we have called the manifold which appears to be a substantial extension of the interior tergal cuticle connected in-line with the cuticular duct and reservoir. The manifold of the Campo Grande member of the complex is longer and wider than the Jacobina member whereas the manifold of the Sobral member was shorter than both other members of the complex. Overall, the secretory apparatus of the Sobral member was smaller than the other two. The manifold of M. migonei was very different to those found in Lu. longipalpis s.l. and was positioned in a pit-like structure within the tergal cuticle. The secretory reservoir was connected by a short duct to the manifold. Differences in the size and shape of the manifold may be related to the chemical structure of the pheromone and may have taxonomic value. Examination of the interior cuticle by SEM may help to locate the secretory apparatus of vector species where pheromonal activity has been inferred from behavioural studies but the external secretory structures or pheromones have not yet been found.

Citric acid minimizes oxidative stress in Amazonian fish (Colossoma macropomum) when fed plant protein-based diets

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of citric acid in plant protein based-diets offered to juvenile tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum. Four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing different levels of citric acid (0, 10, 20, and 30 g.kg−1) were formulated. Fish (n = 160; 27.56±1.03 g) were randomly distributed in 310-L water tanks (n = 16), with four replicates per treatment. After the experimental period (80 days), animals were anesthetized, and blood was collected for cell count. They were euthanized and dissected to remove livers for subsequent oxidative stress analyses. No significant differences were observed in the levels of thrombocytes, total leukocytes, lymphocytes, positive granular leukocytes, and immature leukocytes among the experimental treatments. However, there were fewer monocytes and neutrophils in fish fed the diet containing 30 g.kg−1 of citric acid. All citric acid diets increased glutathione concentration and reduced lipid peroxidation levels in livers. Therefore, citric acid acts as a potent antioxidant in juvenile tambaqui fed plant protein-based diets and, thus, can improve their maintenance conditions in production systems.

Elaboração e análise de validade e confiabilidade de um questionário para avaliar o conhecimento de médicos e enfermeiros da atenção primária sobre o tracoma / Elaboration and validity and reliability analysis of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of primary care physicians and nurses about trachoma

Resumo Objetivo: Elaborar e analisar a validade e confiabilidade de um questionário para avaliar o conhecimento de médicos e enfermeiros da atenção primária sobre o tracoma. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo metodológico de elaboração e análise de validade e confiabilidade de instrumento (questionário). Foram desenvolvidas as seguintes etapas: 1) identificação da literatura fonte atualizada sobre o tema; 2) elaboração dos itens do questionário pelos pesquisadores; 3) validação de conteúdo por experts; 4) validação de construto com aplicação do instrumento e análise de teste de hipóteses; 5) análise de consistência interna e; 6) análise de estabilidade temporal (teste-reteste). Resultados: Participaram da pesquisa 205 médicos e enfermeiros da atenção primária e 10 especialistas em oftalmologia e infectologia. O instrumento, inicialmente com 52 itens, ficou com 34 itens após todas as etapas. O instrumento mostrou-se capaz de discriminar adequadamente profissionais com maior e menor conhecimento, segundo o teste de hipóteses (p<0,001). O alfa de Cronbach foi de 0,86 e o teste-reteste registrou uma concordância superior a 60% para a maioria dos itens. Conclusões: O instrumento final apresentou validade e confiabilidade satisfatórios. Poderá ser um instrumento útil para aferir conhecimentos de profissionais da atenção primária sobre o tracoma e auxiliar na elaboração de estratégias educacionais para estes profissionais.

Abstract Objective: To develop and analyze the validity and reliability of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of primary care physicians and nurses about trachoma. Methods: This is a methodological study of elaboration and analysis of validity and reliability of an instrument (questionnaire). The following steps were developed: 1) identification of updated source literature on the subject; 2) elaboration of the questionnaire items by the researchers; 3) content validation by experts; 4) construct validation with instrument application and hypothesis test analysis; 5) internal consistency analysis and; 6) temporal stability analysis (test-retest). Results: The study included 205 primary health care physicians and nurses and 10 specialists in ophthalmology and infectology. The instrument, initially with 52 items, was left with 41 items after all stages. The instrument was able to adequately discriminate professionals with greater and lesser knowledge, according to the hypothesis test (p <0.001). Cronbach's alpha was 0.86 and the test-retest recorded an agreement greater than 60% for most items. Conclusions: The final instrument presented satisfactory validity and reliability. It may be a useful tool to assess knowledge of primary health care professionals about trachoma and assisting in the development of educational strategies for these professionals.

Melatonin reduces aggressiveness and improves oxidative status of matrinxã (Brycon amazonicus) subjected to social challenge.

Melatonin is a hormone that can modulate aggressive interactions in fish, stimulate antioxidant enzymes, and neutralize the biological damage caused by high free radical production. Fish, especially those kept in artificial environments, are subject to damage caused by free radicals resulting from stressful conditions, such as a social challenge. The matrinxã (Brycon amazonicus) arouses great commercial interest and has been widely used in farming systems. However, these animals have a high frequency of aggressive behavior and cannibalism, which is considered a limiting factor for the production system. Thus, we evaluated the influence of melatonin on aggressiveness and oxidative stress parameters in matrinxã juveniles, testing whether melatonin increases glutathione concentrations and reduces lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances) during social challenge. For this, 24 fish were subjected to three concentrations of melatonin in water: control (0 µmol/L), low MEL (1 µmol/L), and high MEL (10 µmol/L), with eight replicates each. The fish were isolated for 96 h, subjected to the mirror test (social challenge), and then euthanized and dissected to remove the liver. Melatonin reduced total aggressive interactions in animals treated with melatonin (P = 0.036), increased glutathione concentrations (P = 0.002), and decreased levels of lipid peroxidation (P = 0.001). We concluded that melatonin reduces aggressiveness and acts as a potent antioxidant in matrinxã juveniles, contributing to the reduction in stress levels and thus improving the maintenance conditions of animals in production systems.

Antimicrobial susceptibility profile of historical and recent Brazilian pig isolates of Pasteurella multocida / Perfil de suscetibilidade a antimicrobianos de isolados históricos e contemporâneos de Pasteurella multocida de suínos no Brasil

Pasteurella (P.) multocida is the causative agent of pneumonic pasteurellosis in swine, which is commonly associated with the final stages of enzootic pneumonia or porcine respiratory disease complex. Although this syndrome is one of the most common and important diseases of pigs, data on antimicrobial susceptibility of P. multocida isolates are uncommon in Brazil. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine and to compare antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Brazilian P. multocida isolated from pigs with lesions of pneumonia or pleuritis during two-time periods. Historical isolates (period of 1981 to 1997; n=44) and recent isolates (period of 2011 to 2012; n=50) were used to determine the MIC of amoxicillin, enrofloxacin, florfenicol and tetracycline by microbroth dilution. Florfenicol had the lowest level of resistance for both historical and recent isolates (0% and 6%, respectively), while tetracycline had the highest (20.5% and 34%, respectively). Multi-drug resistance (MDR) to amoxicillin/florfenicol/tetracycline was observed in 6% of recent isolates. There was a significant increase (p˂0.05) in resistance for amoxicillin and enrofloxacin in recent isolates compared with historic isolates (3.8% and 18%, respectively), most likely due to the selective pressure of antimicrobial usage to treat and prevent P. multocida infections. The results of this study showed an increase of isolates resistant to important drugs used in treatment of P. multocida infections in pigs, demonstrating the need for the implementation of rational use of antimicrobials in Brazilian swine industry.(AU)

Pasteurella (P.) multocida é o agente da pasteurelose pneumônica em suínos, a qual é comumente associada com o estágio final da pneumonia enzoótica suína ou complexo das doenças respiratórias dos suínos. Apesar de ser uma das doenças mais comuns e importantes na suinocultura, dados sobre suscetibilidade antimicrobiana de isolados de P. multocida são raros no Brasil. Dessa forma, o presente estudo foi realizado para determinar e comparar o perfil de suscetibilidade de isolados de P. multocida de suínos com lesões de pneumonia ou pleurite no Brasil durante dois períodos. Isolados históricos (período de 1981 a 1997; n=44) e contemporâneos (período de 2011 a 2012; n=50) foram usados para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de amoxicilina, enrofloxacina, florfenicol e tetraciclina através do teste de microdiluição em caldo. Florfenicol apresentou o menor nível de resistência para ambos os isolados históricos e contemporâneos (0% e 6%, respectivamente), enquanto que tetraciclina apresentou o maior nível de resistência (20.5% e 34%, respectivamente). Resistência a múltiplos antimicrobianos (amoxicilina, florfenicol e tetraciclina) foi observada em 6% dos isolados recentes. Foi observado aumento significativo (p˂0.05) na resistência a amoxicilina e enrofloxacina em isolados recentes comparado com isolados históricos (3.8% e 18%, respectivamente), provavelmente devido à pressão de seleção de antimicrobianos usados no tratamento e prevenção de infecções causadas por P. multocida. Os resultados deste trabalho demostraram o aumento de isolados resistentes a importantes drogas utilizadas no tratamento de infecções causadas por P. multocida em suínos, evidenciando a necessidade da implementação do uso racional de antimicrobianos na suinocultura brasileira.(AU)

Antimicrobial susceptibility profile of historical and recent Brazilian pig isolates of Pasteurella multocida / Perfil de suscetibilidade a antimicrobianos de isolados históricos e contemporâneos de Pasteurella multocida de suínos no Brasil

Pasteurella (P.) multocida is the causative agent of pneumonic pasteurellosis in swine, which is commonly associated with the final stages of enzootic pneumonia or porcine respiratory disease complex. Although this syndrome is one of the most common and important diseases of pigs, data on antimicrobial susceptibility of P. multocida isolates are uncommon in Brazil. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine and to compare antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Brazilian P. multocida isolated from pigs with lesions of pneumonia or pleuritis during two-time periods. Historical isolates (period of 1981 to 1997; n=44) and recent isolates (period of 2011 to 2012; n=50) were used to determine the MIC of amoxicillin, enrofloxacin, florfenicol and tetracycline by microbroth dilution. Florfenicol had the lowest level of resistance for both historical and recent isolates (0% and 6%, respectively), while tetracycline had the highest (20.5% and 34%, respectively). Multi-drug resistance (MDR) to amoxicillin/florfenicol/tetracycline was observed in 6% of recent isolates. There was a significant increase (p˂0.05) in resistance for amoxicillin and enrofloxacin in recent isolates compared with historic isolates (3.8% and 18%, respectively), most likely due to the selective pressure of antimicrobial usage to treat and prevent P. multocida infections. The results of this study showed an increase of isolates resistant to important drugs used in treatment of P. multocida infections in pigs, demonstrating the need for the implementation of rational use of antimicrobials in Brazilian swine industry.(AU)

Pasteurella (P.) multocida é o agente da pasteurelose pneumônica em suínos, a qual é comumente associada com o estágio final da pneumonia enzoótica suína ou complexo das doenças respiratórias dos suínos. Apesar de ser uma das doenças mais comuns e importantes na suinocultura, dados sobre suscetibilidade antimicrobiana de isolados de P. multocida são raros no Brasil. Dessa forma, o presente estudo foi realizado para determinar e comparar o perfil de suscetibilidade de isolados de P. multocida de suínos com lesões de pneumonia ou pleurite no Brasil durante dois períodos. Isolados históricos (período de 1981 a 1997; n=44) e contemporâneos (período de 2011 a 2012; n=50) foram usados para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de amoxicilina, enrofloxacina, florfenicol e tetraciclina através do teste de microdiluição em caldo. Florfenicol apresentou o menor nível de resistência para ambos os isolados históricos e contemporâneos (0% e 6%, respectivamente), enquanto que tetraciclina apresentou o maior nível de resistência (20.5% e 34%, respectivamente). Resistência a múltiplos antimicrobianos (amoxicilina, florfenicol e tetraciclina) foi observada em 6% dos isolados recentes. Foi observado aumento significativo (p˂0.05) na resistência a amoxicilina e enrofloxacina em isolados recentes comparado com isolados históricos (3.8% e 18%, respectivamente), provavelmente devido à pressão de seleção de antimicrobianos usados no tratamento e prevenção de infecções causadas por P. multocida. Os resultados deste trabalho demostraram o aumento de isolados resistentes a importantes drogas utilizadas no tratamento de infecções causadas por P. multocida em suínos, evidenciando a necessidade da implementação do uso racional de antimicrobianos na suinocultura brasileira.(AU)

Spelling performance of public and private school students: A comparative study / Desempenho ortográfico de escolares do ensino particular e público: estudo de caracterização e relação

To characterize and compare the spelling performance of private and public students. Three hundred 1st-5th graders from public and private schools in the city of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil, were evaluated, totalizing 30 students from each grade, respectively. Collective and individual versions of the Pró-Ortografia test (a renowned Brazilian spelling test) were administered. There were significant inter-group differences indicating that private school students achieved higher performance. The mean values of correct answers of higher grade level students were statistically greater than those of the lower grade level students. The results indicated that the mean values of correct answers of all versions of the spelling test administered increased across grades for both private and public school students. However, the data evaluated showed that private school students attained higher spelling performance than public school students from the 2nd grade onwards.

O estudo buscou caracterizar e relacionar o desempenho ortográfico dos escolares de 1º ao 5º ano do ensino particular e público. Foram avaliados 300 escolares do 1º ao 5º ano em duas escolas, uma particular e outra pública, da cidade de Marília, São Paulo, sendo 30 alunos de cada ano escolar. Como procedimento, foi aplicado o Pró-Ortografia na sua versão coletiva e individual. Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na comparação intergrupos, indicando desempenho superior dos escolares do ensino particular. Com o aumento da seriação, todos os grupos aumentaram a média de acertos nas provas avaliadas. Os resultados indicaram que as médias de acertos nas provas ortográficas se tornaram superiores com a progressão escolar tanto para os escolares do ensino particular quanto para os do ensino público. No entanto, os dados evidenciaram que os alunos do ensino particular apresentaram desempenho ortográfico superior em relação aos do ensino público a partir do 2º ano.

An overview of the molecular and epidemiological features of HIV-1 infection in two major cities of Bahia state, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The high mutation rate of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has created a public health challenge because the use of antiretroviral drugs can generate selective pressure that drives resistance in these viruses. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work was to characterise the molecular and epidemiological profile of HIV in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: DNA sequences from regions of HIV gag, pol, and env genes were obtained from previous studies performed in this area between 2002 and 2012. Their genotype and drug-resistance mutations were identified using bioinformatics tools. Clinical and epidemiological data were analysed. FINDINGS: Among 263 individuals (46.4% male), 97.5% were asymptomatic and 49.1% were receiving treatment. Most of the individuals were 31 to 40 years old (36.9%) and infected through heterosexual contact (40.7%). The predominant genotype was B (68.1%) followed by BF recombinants (18.6%). Among the individuals infected with either F or BF genotypes, 68.4% were women and 76.8% were infected through heterosexual transmission. The prevalence of associated mutations conferring antiretroviral resistance was 14.2%, with 3.8% of all mutations conferring resistance to protease inhibitors, 9.43% to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and 8.5% to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Drug resistance was higher in individuals receiving treatment (26.1%) than in the drug-naïve (4.3%) individuals. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: This study will contribute to the understanding and monitoring of HIV epidemic in this Brazilian region.

An overview of the molecular and epidemiological features of HIV-1 infection in two major cities of Bahia state, Brazil

BACKGROUND The high mutation rate of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has created a public health challenge because the use of antiretroviral drugs can generate selective pressure that drives resistance in these viruses. OBJECTIVE The aim of this work was to characterise the molecular and epidemiological profile of HIV in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS DNA sequences from regions of HIV gag, pol, and env genes were obtained from previous studies performed in this area between 2002 and 2012. Their genotype and drug-resistance mutations were identified using bioinformatics tools. Clinical and epidemiological data were analysed. FINDINGS Among 263 individuals (46.4% male), 97.5% were asymptomatic and 49.1% were receiving treatment. Most of the individuals were 31 to 40 years old (36.9%) and infected through heterosexual contact (40.7%). The predominant genotype was B (68.1%) followed by BF recombinants (18.6%). Among the individuals infected with either F or BF genotypes, 68.4% were women and 76.8% were infected through heterosexual transmission. The prevalence of associated mutations conferring antiretroviral resistance was 14.2%, with 3.8% of all mutations conferring resistance to protease inhibitors, 9.43% to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and 8.5% to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Drug resistance was higher in individuals receiving treatment (26.1%) than in the drug-naïve (4.3%) individuals. MAIN CONCLUSIONS This study will contribute to the understanding and monitoring of HIV epidemic in this Brazilian region.

Vocal tract discomfort in teachers after teaching activity. / Desconforto do trato vocal em professores após atividade letiva.

Purpose To evaluate the vocal tract discomfort (VTD) reported by teachers, comparing their vocal self-assessment at three different times: before teaching, after four hours of teaching, and after eight hours of teaching. Methods The study sample was composed of 50 teachers: 42 women and eight men. The participating teachers were divided into two groups according to the cutoff value of the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS): Vocal Risk Group (VRG) and Vocally Healthy Group (VHG). The List of Vocal Signs and Symptoms (LVSS) was used to identify the number of vocal symptoms in each group. The groups were evaluated at three specific moments (before (BT) and after four (4HT) and eight (8HT) hours of teaching) by means of the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale (VTD scale) and vocal self-assessment. Results The VRG presented more vocal signs and symptoms of the LVSS than the VHG (total: VHG=0.56/VRG=1.60, p<0.001; work-related VHG=0.79/VRG=2.49, p<0.001). The VHG did not report change in discomfort for both frequency (p=1.132) and severity (p=0.431) and showed better vocal self-assessment (BT=0.67; 4HT=0.96; 8HT=0.96, p=0.007). However, the VRG presented vocal tract discomfort after four and eight hours of teaching for both frequency (BT=1.60; 4HT=2.49; 8HT=2.95, p<0.001) and severity (BT=1.79; 4HT=2.52; 8HT=3.12, p<0.001) and worse voice self-assessment (BT=2.00; 4HT=2.42; 8HT=3.00, p<0.001). Conclusion Teachers at vocal risk present worse vocal self-assessment and increased vocal tract discomfort throughout the teaching working day.

Desconforto do trato vocal em professores após atividade letiva / Vocal tract discomfort in teachers after teaching activity

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar o desconforto de trato vocal autorreferido por professores, comparando com a autoavaliação vocal, nos momentos de pré-jornada, pós-período de quatro horas e pós-período de oito horas de aula. Método Participaram do estudo 50 professores, 42 mulheres e oito homens. O valor de corte da Escala de Sintomas Vocais – ESV dividiu os professores em Grupo Risco Vocal – GRV e Grupo Vocalmente Saudável – GVS e a Lista de Sinais e Sintomas Vocais – LSS foi utilizada para identificação da quantidade de sintomas vocais em cada grupo. Posteriormente, os grupos foram avaliados em três momentos (pré-jornada, pós-quatro horas e pós-oito horas) pela Escala de Desconforto do Trato Vocal – EDTV e autoavaliação vocal. Resultados GRV apresentou mais sinais e sintomas vocais da LSS que o GVS (total: GS=0,56 / GRV=1,60, p<0,001; relacionados ao trabalho GVS=0,79 / GRV=2,49, p<0,001). O GVS não relatou mudança no desconforto, tanto para frequência (p=1,132) quanto para intensidade (p=0,431) e apresentou melhor autoavaliação vocal (pré = 0,67; pós-quatro horas = 0,96; pós-oito horas = 0,96; p=0,007). Já o GRV apresentou mais desconforto no trato vocal após quatro e oito horas, tanto para frequência (pré = 1,60; pós-quatro horas = 2,49; pós-oito horas 2,95; p<0,001) quanto para intensidade (pré = 1,79; pós-quatro horas = 2,52; pós-oito horas = 3,12; p<0,001), com pior autoavaliação vocal (pré = 2,00; pós-quatro horas = 2,42; pós-oito horas = 3,00; p<0,001). Conclusão Professores com risco vocal têm pior autoavaliação de voz e maior desconforto do trato vocal, que aumenta durante o dia de atividade letiva.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the vocal tract discomfort (VTD) reported by teachers, comparing their vocal self-assessment at three different times: before teaching, after four hours of teaching, and after eight hours of teaching. Methods The study sample was composed of 50 teachers: 42 women and eight men. The participating teachers were divided into two groups according to the cutoff value of the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS): Vocal Risk Group (VRG) and Vocally Healthy Group (VHG). The List of Vocal Signs and Symptoms (LVSS) was used to identify the number of vocal symptoms in each group. The groups were evaluated at three specific moments (before (BT) and after four (4HT) and eight (8HT) hours of teaching) by means of the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale (VTD scale) and vocal self-assessment. Results The VRG presented more vocal signs and symptoms of the LVSS than the VHG (total: VHG=0.56/VRG=1.60, p<0.001; work-related VHG=0.79/VRG=2.49, p<0.001). The VHG did not report change in discomfort for both frequency (p=1.132) and severity (p=0.431) and showed better vocal self-assessment (BT=0.67; 4HT=0.96; 8HT=0.96, p=0.007). However, the VRG presented vocal tract discomfort after four and eight hours of teaching for both frequency (BT=1.60; 4HT=2.49; 8HT=2.95, p<0.001) and severity (BT=1.79; 4HT=2.52; 8HT=3.12, p<0.001) and worse voice self-assessment (BT=2.00; 4HT=2.42; 8HT=3.00, p<0.001). Conclusion Teachers at vocal risk present worse vocal self-assessment and increased vocal tract discomfort throughout the teaching working day.

A descriptive study of culture media in Brazilian assisted reproduction clinics.

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to draw a profile of the most commonly used media and protocol characteristics from assisted reproduction technology (ART) facilities in Brazil. METHODS: To obtain an overview of ART methods and culture media, a questionnaire was given to embryologists from ART clinics in Brazil. Further research in scientific papers and journals was carried out for describing the processes around Brazil, USA and Europe. RESULTS: From the questionnaire, we found that the embryo medium mostly used is CSCMTM from Irvine Scientific, represented 37.04% in Brazilian ART clinics; interestingly, 70.37% of clinics exchange the embryo media bath; however, 70.37% do not change the media type. Transfers in Brazilian clinics were variable, but day 3 transfer was a procedure seen in 37.04%. The remaining embryos are habitually maintained in prolonged cultivation in 51.85% of the clinics interviewed. CONCLUSION: Although there are numerous studies trying to better understand embryo culture media influences, there is a lack of evidence for choosing one as the most appropriate. In short, it is a random decision for such an essential stage of In Vitro Fertilization.

Frequency of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in fattening pigs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Background: Staphylococcus (S.) aureus is an important nosocomial pathogen in humans and animals worldwide. The commonest class of antibiotics used to treat staphylococcal infections is the -lactams. Frequently, S. aureus strains show high resistance to methicillin and other -lactam antibiotics, called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Although MRSA has emerged at slower rate in domestic animals, it has frequently been found in the nasal cavity of healthy piglets and its transmission between pigs and swine handlers has already been studied. The aim of this work was to assess the presence of MRSA in finishing pigs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 350 nasal swabs were collected from 10 to 20 week old finishing pigs. Sampling was performed in five pig farms in northeast Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Swabs were stored in tubes without transport medium and carried to the laboratory under refrigeration. The specimens were cultured in selective and differential Agar (Baird Parker) and then were incubated at 37ºC for 48 h. After isolation of typical colonies of S. aureus, they were inoculated in BHI (Brain Heart Infusion) broth at 37ºC for 24 h and tested for tube coagulase activity. Coagulase positive samples were selected for growth in Oxacillin Resistant Screening Agar (ORSA) supplemented with 2 mg/L [...]

Comparison of phenotypic and genotypic identification methods of Pasteurella multocida serotypes isolated from pigs

Background: Pasteurella multocida serotypes A and D are commonly associated with pneumonia and pleuritis in pigs. Different phenotypic techniques, such as hyaluronidase and acriflavine tests, and genotyping techniques, such as PCR, are used to distinguish between these serotypes. The objective of this study was to compare the capsular identification methods of type A and type D P. multocida isolated from pigs using both phenotypic (hyaluronidase and acriflavine tests) and genotypic (multiplex PCR) techniques. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 44 lyophilized P. multocida isolates, obtained between 1981 and 1997 from pig farms at Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were analyzed. The isolates were reactivated in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) broth and cultured in BHI broth and blood agar supplemented with 5% sheep blood. Colony identity was further confirmed by evaluating colony morphology in blood agar and confirming the absence of growth on MacConkey agar. Bacteria in Tryptone Soy Agar (TSA) were used for the Triple Sugar Iron (TSI), Sulfide-Indole-Motility (SIM), and nitrate, glucose, lactose, sucrose and mannitol fermentation tests. For hyaluronidase test, P. multocida colonies were streaked transversally across the entire plate, approximately 3-5mm apart, in order to observe their lines of growth. Following this, a hyaluronidase producing strain of Staphylococcus aureus[...]

Comparison of phenotypic and genotypic identification methods of Pasteurella multocida serotypes isolated from pigs

Background: Pasteurella multocida serotypes A and D are commonly associated with pneumonia and pleuritis in pigs. Different phenotypic techniques, such as hyaluronidase and acriflavine tests, and genotyping techniques, such as PCR, are used to distinguish between these serotypes. The objective of this study was to compare the capsular identification methods of type A and type D P. multocida isolated from pigs using both phenotypic (hyaluronidase and acriflavine tests) and genotypic (multiplex PCR) techniques. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 44 lyophilized P. multocida isolates, obtained between 1981 and 1997 from pig farms at Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were analyzed. The isolates were reactivated in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) broth and cultured in BHI broth and blood agar supplemented with 5% sheep blood. Colony identity was further confirmed by evaluating colony morphology in blood agar and confirming the absence of growth on MacConkey agar. Bacteria in Tryptone Soy Agar (TSA) were used for the Triple Sugar Iron (TSI), Sulfide-Indole-Motility (SIM), and nitrate, glucose, lactose, sucrose and mannitol fermentation tests. For hyaluronidase test, P. multocida colonies were streaked transversally across the entire plate, approximately 3-5mm apart, in order to observe their lines of growth. Following this, a hyaluronidase producing strain of Staphylococcus aureus[...](AU)

Frequency of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in fattening pigs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Background: Staphylococcus (S.) aureus is an important nosocomial pathogen in humans and animals worldwide. The commonest class of antibiotics used to treat staphylococcal infections is the -lactams. Frequently, S. aureus strains show high resistance to methicillin and other -lactam antibiotics, called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Although MRSA has emerged at slower rate in domestic animals, it has frequently been found in the nasal cavity of healthy piglets and its transmission between pigs and swine handlers has already been studied. The aim of this work was to assess the presence of MRSA in finishing pigs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 350 nasal swabs were collected from 10 to 20 week old finishing pigs. Sampling was performed in five pig farms in northeast Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Swabs were stored in tubes without transport medium and carried to the laboratory under refrigeration. The specimens were cultured in selective and differential Agar (Baird Parker) and then were incubated at 37ºC for 48 h. After isolation of typical colonies of S. aureus, they were inoculated in BHI (Brain Heart Infusion) broth at 37ºC for 24 h and tested for tube coagulase activity. Coagulase positive samples were selected for growth in Oxacillin Resistant Screening Agar (ORSA) supplemented with 2 mg/L [...](AU)

Outbreak of cumarin poisoning in suckling piglets / Surto de intoxicação por cumarínico em leitões de maternidade

Background: Cumarin, also called warfarin, is used as an anticoagulant rodenticide. Pigs can be accidentally poisoned by ingestion of baits and/or dead rodents contaminated with cumarin and/or its criminal use. The clinical signs typically begin one to three days after ingestion of the rodenticide, when subcutaneous hematomas, epistaxis, among others symptoms, can be observed. The macroscopic and microscopic changes consist mainly of widespread hemorrhages in several organs. The objective of the present study is to report a rare case of cumarin poisoning in suckling piglets.Case: Four male piglets 18 days old were examined in the Department of Veterinary Pathology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. The animals came from a farrowing unit located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with a history of sudden death in piglets from different litters. The animals were submitted to necropsy. On external examination, the piglets had marked pallor of the oral and conjunctival mucosa and multiple petechiae and bruises on the skin of the ventral abdomen and bleeding on the white line of the hoof. During the internal examination, it was identified that there were multiple areas of hemorrhage in the subcutaneous tissue and skeletal muscles besides the thymus, liver, stomach, pancreas, bladder, kidney, heart and cerebellum. The mesenteric and inguinal lymph nodes, testicles and...

Derivados cumarínicos, também chamados varfarínicos, são compostos da cumarina utilizados como rodenticidas anticoagulantes em granjas de suínos como forma de controle de roedores [7]. Suínos podem se intoxicar acidentalmente através da ingestão de iscas e/ou roedores mortos por estas substâncias, ou pelo uso criminoso das mesmas [6]. Esses compostos inibem de forma competitiva a vitamina K epóxi redutase, enzima necessária para converter a vitamina K epóxi à sua forma reduzida, que é necessária para ativação dos fatores de coagulação II, VII, IX e X, consequentemente, a coagulação é comprometida [7]. A ingestão de 3 mg/kg em dose única pode ser suficiente para levar à intoxicação de suínos [2]. Já as doses de 0,05 mg/kg, se ingeridas por sete dias, também podem intoxicar os animais [5]. Os sinais clínicos normalmente surgem um a três dias após ingestão do raticida, sendo observados principalmente hematomas subcutâneos e epistaxe. As alterações macroscópicas e microscópicas consistem de hemorragias disseminadas em diversos órgãos [6]. O diagnóstico diferencial deve incluir carência de vitamina K; tratamento com quimioterápicos por períodos prolongados; intoxicação por chumbo, fosfato de zinco, ricina (da mamona), aflatoxinas e venenos ofídicos [6] e, principalmente, trombocitopenia púrpura dos leitões [9]. Dessa forma, a descrição de um surto de intoxicação por cumarínico pode...