MSK1 is required for the experience- and ampakine-dependent enhancement of spatial reference memory and reversal learning and for the induction of Arc and BDNF.

There is considerable interest in the development of nootropics, pharmacological agents that can improve cognition across a range of both cognitive modalities and cognitive disabilities. One class of cognitive enhancers, the ampakines, has attracted particular attention by virtue of improving cognition associated with animal models of neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric conditions, as well as in age-related cognitive impairment. Ampakines elevate CNS levels of BDNF, and it is through this elevation that their beneficial actions are believed to occur. However, what transduces the elevation of BDNF into long-lasting cognitive enhancement is not known. We have previously shown that MSK1, by virtue of its ability to regulate gene transcription, converts the elevation of BDNF associated with environmental enrichment into molecular, synaptic, cognitive and genomic adaptations that underlie enrichment-induced enhanced synaptic plasticity and learning and memory, a property that MSK1 retains across the lifespan. To establish whether MSK1 similarly converts ampakine-induced elevations of BDNF into cognitive enhancement we tested an ampakine (CX929) in male WT mice and in male mice in which the kinase activity of MSK1 was inactivated. We found that MSK1 is required for the ampakine-dependent improvement in spatial reference memory and cognitive flexibility, and for the elevations of BDNF and the plasticity-related protein Arc associated with ampakines and experience. These observations implicate MSK1 as a key enabler of the beneficial effects of ampakines on cognitive function, and furthermore identify MSK1 as a hub for BDNF-elevating nootropic strategies.

Enteral adequacy of the diet of low-birth-weight preterm newborns: A prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to verify the dietary adequacy of full enteral feeding in preterm newborns (PTNB) and its relationship with birth weight (BW) during the period of hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study whose population were babies born at less than 37 gestational weeks and weighing less than 2500 g, admitted to a NICU. PTNB were monitored regarding their dietary evolution, considering parenteral and enteral nutrition and adequacy of diet supply in terms of volume, energy, and protein. For statistical analysis, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used, considering p < 0.05 as significant. RESULTS: A total of 76 PTNB were included. The mean time of using parenteral nutrition was 14 days. The mean time to reach the full enteral feeding for nutrition (FEF-N) was 29 days. However, half of the PTNB reached nutritional recommendations after this means. The time to achieve FEF-N was influenced by BW. Additionally, BW significantly influenced the length of stay in the NICU (p < 0.001). When reaching the recommended full enteral feeding for hydration (FEF-H), 60% of the sample was unable to reach the recommended energy and protein intake. CONCLUSIONS: BW influenced the time needed to reach the FEF-H and FEF-N. The lower the BW, the longer it took to achieve dietary adequacy. Despite achieving the FEF-H, most premature babies did not reach the necessary energy and protein intake at the appropriate time.

ADRB2 and ADCY9 Sequence Variations in Brazilian Asthmatic Patients.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory condition, characterized by variable airflow limitation, leading to clinical symptoms such as dyspnea and chest tightness. These symptoms result from an underlying inflammatory process. The ß2 agonists are bronchodilators prescribed for the relief of the disease. Nevertheless, their efficacy exhibits substantial interindividual variability. Currently, there is widespread recognition of the association between specific genetic variants, predominantly located within the ADRB2 and ADCY9 genes and their efficacy. This association, usually represented by the presence of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have a strong impact in the protein functionality. The prevalence of these mutations varies based on the ethnic composition of the population and thus understanding the profiles of variability in different populations would contribute significantly to standardizing the use of these medications. In this study, we conducted a sequence-based genotyping of the relevant SNPs within the ADRB2 and ADCY9 genes in patients undergoing treatment with bronchodilators and/or corticosteroids at two healthcare facilities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We investigated the presence of c.46A>G, c.79C>G, c.252G>A, and c.491C>T SNPs within the ADRB2, and c.1320018 A>G within the ADCY9. Our results were in line with existing literature data with both for individuals in Brazil and Latin American.

Determination of NAT2 Genotypes in a Cohort of Patients with Suspected TB in the State of Rio de Janeiro.

The human N-acetyltransferase 2 enzyme, encoded by the NAT2 gene, plays an important role in the metabolism of isoniazid, the main drug used to treat tuberculosis. The interindividual variation in the response of patients to drug treatment for tuberculosis may be responsible for the occurrence of unfavorable outcomes. The presence of polymorphisms in genes associated with the metabolism and transport of drugs, receptors, and therapeutic targets has been identified as a major determinant of this variability. The objective of this study was to identify the genetic profile of NAT2 in the study population. Using the obtained genomic DNA followed by PCR amplification and sequencing, the frequency of nine SNPs as well as alleles associated with slow (47.9%), intermediate (38.7%), and fast acetylation phenotypes (11.3%), in addition to those whose phenotype has not yet been characterized (2.1%), was estimated. The NAT2*5B allele was identified more frequently (31.3%). The description of SNPs in pharmacogenes and the establishment of their relationship with the pharmacokinetics of an individual offer an individualized approach that allows us to reduce the unfavorable outcomes of a therapy, ensure better adherence to treatment, prevent the emergence of MDR strains, reduce the cost of treatment, and improve the quality of patients' lives.

Genetic Diversity of Legionella pneumophila Isolates from Artificial Water Sources in Brazil.

Legionella pneumophila (Lp) is a Gram-negative bacterium found in natural and artificial aquatic environments and inhalation of contaminated aerosols can cause severe pneumonia known as Legionnaires' Disease (LD). In Brazil there is hardly any information about this pathogen, so we studied the genetic variation of forty Legionella spp. isolates obtained from hotels, malls, laboratories, retail centers, and companies after culturing in BCYE medium. These isolates were collected from various sources in nine Brazilian states. Molecular identification of the samples was carried out using Sequence-Based Typing (SBT), which consists of sequencing and analysis of seven genes (flaA, pilE, asd, mip, mompS, proA, and neuA) to define a Sequence Type (ST). Eleven STs were identified among 34/40 isolates, of which eight have been previously described (ST1, ST80, ST152, ST242, ST664, ST1185, ST1464, ST1642) and three were new STs (ST2960, ST2962, and ST2963), the former identified in five different cooling towers in the city of São Paulo. The ST1 that is widely distributed in many countries was also the most prevalent in this study. In addition, other STs that we observed have also been associated with legionellosis in other countries, reinforcing the potential of these isolates to cause LD in Brazil. Unfortunately, no human isolates could be characterized until presently, but our observations strongly suggest the need of surveillance implementation system and control measures of Legionella spp. in Brazil, including the use of more sensitive genotyping procedures besides ST.

ArcKR expression modifies synaptic plasticity following epileptic activity: Differential effects with in vitro and in vivo seizure-induction protocols.

OBJECTIVES: Pathological forms of neural activity, such as epileptic seizures, modify the expression pattern of multiple proteins, leading to persistent changes in brain function. One such protein is activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc), which is critically involved in protein-synthesis-dependent synaptic plasticity underlying learning and memory. In the present study, we have investigated how the expression of ArcKR, a form of Arc in which the ubiquitination sites have been mutated, resulting in slowed Arc degradation, modifies group I metabotropic glutamate receptor-mediated long-term depression (G1-mGluR-LTD) following seizures. METHODS: We used a knock-in mice line that express ArcKR and two hyperexcitation models: an in vitro model, where hippocampal slices were exposed to zero Mg2+, 6 mM K+; and an in vivo model, where kainic acid was injected unilaterally into the hippocampus. In both models, field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) were recorded from the CA1 region of hippocampal slices in response to Schaffer collateral stimulation and G1-mGluR-LTD was induced chemically with the group 1 mGluR agonist DHPG. RESULTS: In the in vitro model, ArcKR expression enhanced the effects of seizure activity and increased the magnitude of G1-mGluR LTD, an effect that could be blocked with the mGluR5 antagonist MTEP. In the in vivo model, fEPSPs were significantly smaller in slices from ArcKR mice and were less contaminated by population spikes. In this model, the amount of G1-mGluR-LTD was significantly less in epileptic slices from ArcKR mice as compared to wildtype (WT) mice. SIGNIFICANCE: We have shown that expression of ArcKR, a form of Arc in which degradation is reduced, significantly modulates the magnitude of G1-mGluR-LTD following epileptic seizures. However, the effect of ArcKR on LTD depends on the epileptic model used, with enhancement of LTD in an in vitro model and a reduction in the kainate mouse model.

Prevalence of Pulmonary Embolism in COVID-19 at Quaternary Hospital Running Head: Pulmonary Embolism in COVID-19.

Background: Patients with COVID-19 are at greater risk of pulmonary embolism. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the monthly prevalence of pulmonary embolism diagnosed by angiotomography and mortality between March 2020 and May 2021 in more than 6000 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at a single institution. Methods: A clinical trial was conducted with evaluated medical records the patients hospitalized at the institution who developed pulmonary embolism determined by angiotomography. Monthly and overall mortality rates between March 2020 and May 2021 in this population were evaluated. Results: A total of 6040 patients were hospitalized in this period, 203 of whom (3.36%) had an angiotomographic diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and 119 of these patients (58.62%) died. The largest number of patients with pulmonary embolism occurred in the periods from July to September 2020 and March to May 2021. No significant difference was found between mortality and the two peaks of the pandemic (p = 0.9, Fisher's exact test). Conclusion: Pulmonary embolism is associated a higher mortality rate among patients with COVID-19. Therefore, one of the strategies is an emphasis on the prevention of thrombotic and embolic events.

Prognostic value of overhydration and bioelectrical impedance vector on short- and long-term outcomes in hospitalized patients with cancer.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Water, an essential component of body composition, appears to be a significant predictor of adverse outcomes in clinical populations, despite being frequently underexplored. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and vector analysis (BIVA) are easy and cost-effective bedside tools for estimating body composition, particularly water content. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the impact of hydration and fluid status using both BIA and BIVA on outcomes in hospitalized patients with cancer. METHODS: A prospective cohort study involving hospitalized individuals with cancer was conducted. Total body water (TBW) was estimated using BIA. Extracellular-water/TBW (ECW/TBW) and ECW/intracellular-water (ECW/ICW) ratios were calculated. BIVA ellipses vectors were constructed to enhance our analysis of hydration status. Participants were followed during their hospital stay and up to six months after discharge to assess outcomes, including in-hospital mortality, 6-month non-elective rehospitalization, and 6-month mortality. RESULTS: TBW, ECW/TBW, ECW/ICW ratios, and BIVA plots were not associated with non-elective rehospitalization during the follow-up period. However, TBW and an elevated ECW/ICW ratio were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 1.07 (1.01; 1.13) p = 0.020; HR: 4.23 (1.69; 10.58) p = 0.002]. Elevated ratios ECW/TBW and ECW/ICW were independent predictors of 6-month mortality [HR: 1.87 (1.10; 3.21) p = 0.022; HR: 2.49 (1.37; 4.51) p = 0.003]. BIVA vectors for in-hospital and 6-month mortality shifted significantly to the right, leading to cachexia and overhydration quadrants (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Abnormalities related to overhydration were important predictors of short- and long-term mortality in hospitalized patients with cancer.

Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis is different according to the comorbidity burden in post-acute myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of a high comorbidity burden in patients who suffered an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is increasing with the aging population, and the nutrition status also may be a predictor of clinical outcomes for these patients. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the comorbidity burden and the characteristics of the bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) in patients post-AMI. METHODS: This prospective observational cohort study was conducted with adult patients who were hospitalized with AMI. Pre-existing comorbidities were assessed by the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) adjusted by age, and anthropometric and BIVA characteristics were evaluated after the hemodynamic stabilization. All patients were followed-up until hospital discharge, and their length of stay was observed. RESULTS: A total of 184 patients (75% were males; mean age, 60.2 ± 12.3 years) were included. The most common comorbidities were dyslipidemia (73.9%), hypertension (62%), and type 2 diabetes (34.2%). A higher CCI (≥3) was associated with sex (P = 0.008) and age (P < 0.001). Regarding BIVA, statistically significant differences were detected between sex (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001), and CCI (P = 0.003), with longer vectors in female, older adults, and those with CCI ≥ 3. CONCLUSION: Finding a relationship between BIVA and CCI suggests the first identified coherent differences, potentially correlated with diseases, representing a first contribution to support this type of assessment. Therefore, with BIVA, healthcare professionals may monitor abnormalities and adopt preventive nutrition care measures on patients post-AMI to improve their clinical status.

Human N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene variability in Brazilian populations from different geographical areas.

Introduction: Several polymorphisms altering the NAT2 activity have already been identified. The geographical distribution of NAT2 variants has been extensively studied and has been demonstrated to vary significantly among different ethnic population. Here, we describe the genetic variability of human N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene and the predominant genotype-deduced acetylation profiles of Brazilians. Methods: A total of 964 individuals, from five geographical different regions, were genotyped for NAT2 by sequencing the entire coding exon. Results: Twenty-three previously described NAT2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified, including the seven most common ones globally (c.191G>A, c.282C>T, c.341T>C, c.481C>T, c.590G>A, c.803A>G and c.857G>A). The main allelic groups were NAT2*5 (36%) and NAT2*6 (18.2%), followed to the reference allele NAT2*4 (20.4%). Combined into genotypes, the most prevalent allelic groups were NAT2*5/*5 (14.6%), NAT2*5/*6 (11.9%) and NAT2*6/*6 (6.2%). The genotype deduced NAT2 slow acetylation phenotype was predominant but showed significant variability between geographical regions. The prevalence of slow acetylation phenotype was higher in the Northeast, North and Midwest (51.3%, 45.5% and 41.5%, respectively) of the country. In the Southeast, the intermediate acetylation phenotype was the most prevalent (40.3%) and, in the South, the prevalence of rapid acetylation phenotype was significantly higher (36.7%), when compared to other Brazilian states (p < 0.0001). Comparison of the predicted acetylation profile among regions showed homogeneity among the North and Northeast but was significantly different when compared to the Southeast (p = 0.0396). The Southern region was significantly different from all other regions (p < 0.0001). Discussion: This study contributes not only to current knowledge of the NAT2 population genetic diversity in different geographical regions of Brazil, but also to the reconstruction of a more accurate phenotypic picture of NAT2 acetylator profiles in those regions.

Body composition, lipid profile and clinical parameters are predictors of prognosis in patients with heart failure: Two-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is a complex syndrome that leads to changes in body composition and eventually results in unfavorable outcomes. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate body composition, lipid profiles and clinical parameters of patients with HF, and their associations with both survival and unfavorable clinical outcomes. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 94 adults and older people with HF. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Anthropometric variables and lipid profile were also evaluated. Electronic medical records were checked to collect information on clinical outcomes (mortality and hospitalization), considering a follow-up period of 24 months. Survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier estimate, and the curves compared using Log-Rank. The death risk rate (Hazard Ratio, HR) was calculated using Cox's univariate models. RESULTS: Mean age was 55.1 (13.9) years and there was a higher frequency of males. There was a predominance of HF with reduced ejection fraction, and ischemic etiology. Patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification I/II had a better overall survival rate at 24 months than those with NYHA III/IV (univariate HR 4.93 (1.76-13.82); p = 0.001). Greater survival rates were found in patients without chronic kidney disease (CKD) (univariate HR 2.93 (1.59-5.39); p = 0.01). In the multivariate analyses, both dyslipidemia (adjusted HR 3.84 (1.22-12.00); p = 0.021) and increased fat mass index (FMI) were associated with overall survival rate (adjusted HR 3.59 (1, 10-11.74); p = 0.034). CONCLUSION: The severity of HF symptoms and the presence of chronic kidney disease are associated with higher mortality. Increased fat mass index and dyslipidemia are predictors of favorable outcomes in this population.

Hearing screening using the uHear™ smartphone-based app: reproducibility of results from two response modes. / Triagem auditiva com o aplicativo para dispositivos móveis uHear™: reprodutibilidade dos resultados utilizando dois diferentes modos de resposta.

PURPOSE: Estimate the reproducibility of hearing screening results using the uHear™ smartphone-based app in two response modes: self-test response and test-operator. METHODS: Reliability study conducted with 65 individuals aged ≥18 years assisted at the Speech-language and Hearing Therapy clinic of a public higher-education institution. Hearing screening was conducted by a single researcher using the uHear app and earbud headphones in a soundproof booth. Participants responded to sound stimuli in both self-test response mode and test-operator mode. The order in which these two uHear test modes were applied was altered according to the entrance of each participant in the study. The correspondence between the hearing thresholds obtained from each response mode was analyzed and their Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was estimated. RESULTS: A correspondence of ±5 dBHL >75% was observed between these hearing thresholds. The ICC values showed excellent agreement between the two response modes at all frequencies >40 dBHL tested. CONCLUSION: The two hearing screening response modes using the uHear app presented high reproducibility, suggesting that the test-operator mode is a viable alternative when the self-test response mode is not recommended.

OBJETIVO: Estimar a reprodutibilidade dos resultados da triagem auditiva com o aplicativo uHear, utilizando dois diferentes modos de resposta, o modo autoaplicado e o modo com intermediação do pesquisador. MÉTODO: Estudo de confiabilidade realizado com 65 indivíduos, maiores de 18 anos, que compareceram à clínica escola de Fonoaudiologia de uma instituição pública de ensino superior. A triagem auditiva foi realizada com o aplicativo uHear, em cabina acústica, utilizando fone intra-auricular e conduzida sempre pelo mesmo pesquisador. Os participantes responderam ao estímulo sonoro de maneira autoaplicada e com intermediação do pesquisador. A ordem de realização dos dois modos de resposta ao aplicativo uHear foi alternada de acordo com a entrada do participante no estudo. Foi analisada a correspondência entre os limiares auditivos obtidos com os dois modos de resposta, bem como estimado o Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (ICC). RESULTADOS: Verificou-se uma correspondência de ± 5 dBNA superior a 75% entre os limiares auditivos obtidos nos dois modos de resposta. O ICC revelou concordância excelente entre os dois modos de resposta, em todas as frequências testadas, para intensidades superiores a 40 dBNA. CONCLUSÃO: Os dois modos de resposta à triagem auditiva com o aplicativo uHear apresentam elevada reprodutibilidade, o que permite indicar o modo de resposta com intermediação do pesquisador como uma alternativa viável quando o modo autoaplicado não for recomendado.

One Health Approach on Dog Bites: Demographic and Associated Socioeconomic Factors in Southern Brazil.

Despite being an important public health issue, particularly due to rabies, dog bites and associated risk factors have rarely been assessed by health services from a One Health perspective. Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess dog biting and associated demographic and socioeconomic risk factors in Curitiba, the eighth-largest Brazilian city with approximately 1.87 million people, based on the post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) rabies reports between January/2010 and December/2015. The total of 45,392 PEP reports corresponded to an average annual incidence of 4.17/1000 habitants, mainly affecting white (79.9%, 4.38/1000 population), males (53.1%, 4.81/1000 population), and children aged 0-9 years (20.1%, 6.9/1000 population), with severe accidents associated with older victims (p < 0.001) and mainly caused by dogs known to the victims. An increase of USD 100.00 in the median neighborhood income was associated with a 4.9% (95% CI: 3.8-6.1; p < 0.001) reduction in dog bites. In summary, dog biting occurrence was associated with victims' low income, gender, race/color, and age; severe accidents were associated with elderly victims. As dog bites have been described as multifactorial events involving human, animal, and environmental factors, the characteristics presented herein should be used as a basis to define mitigation, control, and prevention strategies from a One Health perspective.

Risk assessment and nutritional prognosis of clinical outcome in critically ill patients / Avaliação do risco e prognóstico nutricional com relação ao desfecho clínico de pacientes críticos

INTRODUCTION: Nutrition assessment of critically ill patients is challenging but it should be part of the clinical nutrition routine in the hospital setting. OBJECTIVE: To assess the nutritional risk and prognosis of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a University Hospital in Natal, Brazil. METHODS: Cross-sectional study developed with adult and elderly patients between February 2017 and February 2020. The nutritional risk was detected by the modified Nutrition Risk in Critically Ill score (mNUTRIC score). The nutritional prognosis was assessed using the phase angle (PA), calculated from the resistance and reactance values provided by bioimpedance. Mann-Whitney test was used to verify the association of mNUTRIC-score and PA with the outcome (hospital discharge or death). Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to verify the correlation between mNUTRIC-score and PA. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients were included in this study. The average value of the NUTRIC score and PA was 3.13 ± 2.35 and 4.19 ± 1.21, respectively. Most patients had low nutritional risk. Among them, 81.8% were discharged and 18.2% died. Both mNUTRIC-score (p≤0.0001) and PA (p=0.04) were associated with the clinical outcome. These two parameters were negatively correlated (r=-0.3804; p=0.0059). CONCLUSION: Most of the patients had a low nutritional risk determined by the mNUTRIC-score. Those with high nutritional risk had a worse outcome (death). A negative correlation was observed between the mNUTRIC score and the PA, showing that the higher the nutritional risk, the worse prognosis was found in critically ill patients.

INTRODUÇÃO: A avaliação do estado nutricional de pacientes críticos é um desafio, mas faz parte da rotina da nutrição clínica hospitalar. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o risco e o prognóstico nutricional, e suas relações, em pacientes críticos admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) de um hospital universitário em Natal, Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, desenvolvido com pacientes adultos e idosos entre fevereiro de 2017 e fevereiro de 2020. O risco nutricional foi detectado pelo Nutrition Risk in Critically ill score modificado (mNUTRIC-score). O prognóstico nutricional foi avaliado mediante o ângulo de fase (AF). O teste de Mann-Whitney foi usado para verificar a associação do mNUTRIC-score e do AF com os desfechos (alta da UTI ou óbito). A correlação de Spearman foi usada para verificar a correlação entre o mNUTRIC-score e o AF. RESULTADOS: Ao total, 55 indivíduos foram incluídos no estudo. O valor médio do mNUTRIC-score foi de 3,13 ± 2,35 e do AF foi de 4,19 ± 1,21. A maioria dos pacientes apresentaram baixo risco nutricional (76,4%) e tiveram alta da UTI (81,8%). Tanto o mNUTRIC-score (p<0,0001) como o AF (p=0,04) estiveram associados com o desfecho clínico. Esses dois parâmetros se correlacionaram negativamente (r= -0,3804; p=0,0059). CONCLUSÃO: A maioria dos pacientes críticos estudados apresentaram baixo risco nutricional determinado pelo mNUTRIC-score. Aqueles com alto risco nutricional tiveram pior desfecho (óbito). Observou-se correlação negativa entre o mNUTRIC-score e o AF, demostrando que quanto maior o risco nutricional, pior o prognóstico clínico e nutricional em pacientes críticos.

The patient generated-subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) and ECOG performance status are associated with mortality in patients hospitalized with breast cancer.

AIM: This study evaluated the association between risk of malnutrition and performance status, and mortality in hospitalized breast cancer patients. METHODS: Prospective cohort study with hospitalized breast cancer patients evaluated at a referral Cancer Center. The Risk of malnutrition was assessed by the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) and performance status was determined using the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status Scale (ECOG PS). Logistic regression was used to analyze the factors associated with death, using the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) as an effect measure. RESULTS: A total of 195 woman were included, with a mean age of 56.3 (±12.6) years. Patients with an overall PG-SGA score ≥18 (OR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.03-4.62) and ECOG PS ≥ 3 (OR: 3.34; 95% CI: 1.48-7.52) had a higher occurrence of death during hospitalization, regardless of age or disease stage. The concomitant presence of these two factors improved the accuracy of the association (OR: 5.32; 95% CI: 3.11-9.76) and showed good predictive accuracy (C-statistics: 0.77). CONCLUSION: Nutritional risk and poor performance status were associated with a higher occurrence of death in women with breast cancer. The use of these two indicators improves their predictive accuracy for mortality.

Use of cerebrospinal fluid CXCL13 concentration for diagnosis and monitoring of neurosyphilis: a three-case report

Introduction: Previous retrospective studies have demonstrated that the concentration of chemokine ligand CXCL13 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF-CXCL13) is a promising biomarker in the diagnosis of neurosyphilis and, additionally, in the monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. Objective: To describe three cases of patients with neurosyphilis (NS) treated at Hospital Universitário Gaffrée e Guinle, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with suspected active syphilis with neurological symptoms. Case report: Three patients from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were investigated for symptomatic NS. The concentration of CSF-CXCL13 was prospectively performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in all participants at baseline and in follow-up visits at 3 months after therapy. CSF-CXCL13 concentrations were significantly higher in all three patients with established NS. The CSF-CXCL13 concentrations decreased after 3 months of therapy compared to baseline in all cases reported. The added high concentration of CSF-CXCL13 plus CSF-TPHA reactivity above 1:40 titer agreed with the diagnosis of NS in 100% of the cases. Conclusion: In this case series, we present three cases of NS diagnosed using CXCL13 in CSF as a complementary test. These case series suggest that the clinical use of CSF-CXCL13 is useful as a supplementary biomarker for NS and for monitoring the effectiveness of NS therapy, especially in patients with nonreactive CSF-VDRL, excluding other neurologic diseases

Triagem auditiva com o aplicativo para dispositivos móveis uHear™: reprodutibilidade dos resultados utilizando dois diferentes modos de resposta / Hearing screening using the uHear™ smartphone-based app: reproducibility of results from two response modes

RESUMO Objetivo Estimar a reprodutibilidade dos resultados da triagem auditiva com o aplicativo uHear, utilizando dois diferentes modos de resposta, o modo autoaplicado e o modo com intermediação do pesquisador. Método Estudo de confiabilidade realizado com 65 indivíduos, maiores de 18 anos, que compareceram à clínica escola de Fonoaudiologia de uma instituição pública de ensino superior. A triagem auditiva foi realizada com o aplicativo uHear, em cabina acústica, utilizando fone intra-auricular e conduzida sempre pelo mesmo pesquisador. Os participantes responderam ao estímulo sonoro de maneira autoaplicada e com intermediação do pesquisador. A ordem de realização dos dois modos de resposta ao aplicativo uHear foi alternada de acordo com a entrada do participante no estudo. Foi analisada a correspondência entre os limiares auditivos obtidos com os dois modos de resposta, bem como estimado o Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (ICC). Resultados Verificou-se uma correspondência de ± 5 dBNA superior a 75% entre os limiares auditivos obtidos nos dois modos de resposta. O ICC revelou concordância excelente entre os dois modos de resposta, em todas as frequências testadas, para intensidades superiores a 40 dBNA. Conclusão Os dois modos de resposta à triagem auditiva com o aplicativo uHear apresentam elevada reprodutibilidade, o que permite indicar o modo de resposta com intermediação do pesquisador como uma alternativa viável quando o modo autoaplicado não for recomendado.

ABSTRACT Purpose Estimate the reproducibility of hearing screening results using the uHear™ smartphone-based app in two response modes: self-test response and test-operator. Methods Reliability study conducted with 65 individuals aged ≥18 years assisted at the Speech-language and Hearing Therapy clinic of a public higher-education institution. Hearing screening was conducted by a single researcher using the uHear app and earbud headphones in a soundproof booth. Participants responded to sound stimuli in both self-test response mode and test-operator mode. The order in which these two uHear test modes were applied was altered according to the entrance of each participant in the study. The correspondence between the hearing thresholds obtained from each response mode was analyzed and their Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was estimated. Results A correspondence of ±5 dBHL >75% was observed between these hearing thresholds. The ICC values showed excellent agreement between the two response modes at all frequencies >40 dBHL tested. Conclusion The two hearing screening response modes using the uHear app presented high reproducibility, suggesting that the test-operator mode is a viable alternative when the self-test response mode is not recommended.

Avaliação dos alunos deficientes visuais e videntes do Instituto de Cegos Padre Chico / Evaluation of the visually impaired and sighted students at the Instituto de Cegos Padre Chico

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o perfil dos alunos concluintes, deficientes visuais e videntes do Instituto de Cegos Padre Chico entre os anos 2011 e 2020. Métodos Entre janeiro e março de 2021, foi realizada uma análise documental dos alunos concluintes entre os anos de 2011 e 2020. Foram coletados dados relacionados à situação social, educacional, socioeconômica e oftalmológica. Os dados foram tratados no programa Microsoft Excel 2013 da Microsoft e analisados no software livre Bioestat, versão 5.0. Resultados Foram coletados os dados de 110 concluintes cegos, com baixa visão e videntes. Mais de 90% dos alunos declararam rendimento familiar equivalente a um salário-mínimo e meio. Do total da amostra, 52 alunos eram cegos; 38 tinham baixa visão, e 20 eram videntes. Dentre as 36 patologias identificadas entre os alunos, 57,78% levaram à cegueira e 42,22%, à baixa visão. Em alunos cegos, as patologias mais frequentes foram glaucoma congênito (32,69%) e amaurose congênita de Leber (11,53%); em alunos com baixa visão, foram glaucoma congênito e distrofias de retina (ambas em 10,53% da amostra). Conclusão É de suma importância a avaliação da saúde ocular para que o professor realize de forma mais rápida as práticas de ensino e alcance resultados satisfatórios na alfabetização de crianças com deficiência visual.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the profile of visually impaired and sighted students at the Instituto de Cegos Padre Chico (ICPC) between 2011 and 2020. Methods Between January and March 2021, a document analysis of the students who completed the undergraduate course between 2011 and 2020. Data related to social, educational, socioeconomic, and ophthalmological situation were collected. The data were treated in Microsoft Excel 2013 and analyzed in the free software Bioestat, version 5.0. Results Retrospective data were collected from 110 blind, low-vision and sighted students who were graduating. More than 90% of the students declared family income equivalent to one and a half minimum wages. Of the total sample, 52 students were blind; 38 had low vision, and 20 were sighted students. Among the 36 pathologies identified among the students, 57.78% led to blindness, and 42.22%, to low vision. In blind students, the most frequent diagnosis was congenital glaucoma (32.69%) and Leber congenital amaurosis (11.53%); in low vision students, congenital glaucoma and retinal dystrophies (both in 11.53% of the population of this study). Conclusion The evaluation of the eye health is of vital importance for the teacher to perform teaching practices faster and achieve satisfactory results in the literacy of visually impaired children.

Aplicação das metodologias ativas para ensino de enfermagem em meio à pandemia de COVID-19 / Application of active methodologies for nursing teaching in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic

Objetivo:Relatar a aplicação das metodologias ativas para o ensino em enfermagem em meio à pandemia de COVID-19.Métodos:Trata-se de um relato de experiênciadas vivências na disciplina de Laboratório de Fundamentos de Enfermagem de uma Universidade Pública em Fortaleza-CE.Resultados:Utilizou-se multimétodos, como aulas e jogos online, estudosde caso, simulação realística, elaboração de portfólio e vídeos com os procedimentos de Enfermagem abordados na disciplina.As diversas estratégias foram necessárias para colaborar com a construção do conhecimento durante a pandemia, uma vez que se utilizou do modelo híbrido de ensino.Conclusão:Constata-se que os vários métodos tecnológicos,como sala virtual, o WhatsAppcomo ferramenta de comunicação rápida, a elaboração do portfólio e a utilização de vídeos e jogos online, os estudos de caso e a simulação realística,foram utilizados de forma complementar e integrada, tornando-se favoráveis para os alunos, pois eles fazem parte de uma geração que tem maior facilidade em utilizartecnologias e são receptivos a multimétodos de aprendizagem

Objective: To report the application of active methodologies for nursing teaching in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This is an experience report of lived situations in the Nursing Fundamentals Laboratory discipline at a Public University in Fortaleza-CE.Results: Multi-methods were used, such as online classesand games, case studies, realistic simulation, portfolio development and videos with the Nursing procedures addressed in the course. The various strategies were necessary to collaborate with the construction of knowledge during the pandemic, since the hybrid teaching model was used. Conclusion: It appears that the various technological methods, such as the virtual room, WhatsApp as a quick communication tool, the elaboration of the portfolio and the use of videos and online games, case studies and realistic simulation, were used in a complementary and integrated way, becoming favorable for students, as they are part of a generation that is more comfortable using technologies and are receptive to multi-method learning