Distribution of gamma-ray elements in Cerro do Jarau impact structure and a proposal of geothermal modeling.

Large meteorite impacts release kinetic energy that induces rock deformation, high temperatures and fluid circulation during the cratering process. To understand the correlation between rock deformation and fluid circulation, it is relevant to investigate post-impact hydrothermal flux and its relation to the local geology. The Cerro do Jarau impact structure is a ~13.5 km diameter impact structure located in southern Brazil and formed on Cretaceous continental flood basalts of the Serra Geral Formation and underlying sedimentary strata. This study collected ground gamma-ray data over the structure and produced K, eTh and eU concentrations, eTh/K ratio and F-factor maps to characterize it in terms of its radiometric signatures and their respective spatial distribution. A general decrease in the concentration of the three elements was observed from the outer-rim towards the center of the crater. The central area is defined by very low radiometric values, with relatively high K values, thus indicating the occurrence of K-bearing rocks. Numerical simulations using the HYDROTHERM 3 code showed the fluid circulation pattern over the impact structure. Data interpretation resulted in a scenery consistent with potential fluid remobilization within the impact structure related to hydrothermal processes in the late stages of the crater formation process.

Nivel de conocimiento sobre VPH en estudiantes de la Universidad del Pacífico

Introducción. El virus del papiloma humano (VPH) es una infección viral más habitual del aparato reproductor y causa diversos trastornos, tanto en hombres como en mujeres, y se considera como el principal agente para el desarrollo del cáncer cervicouterino. Objetivo. Determinar el nivel de conocimiento sobre el VPH de las alumnas del segundo año de las diferentes carreras de la Universidad del Pacífico Sede Asunción en el año 2023. Materiales y Métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal en alumnas del segundo año de las diferentes carreras de la Universidad del Pacifico en el 2023, mediante una encuesta de conocimiento, influencia y métodos para evitar el contagio del VPH. Se aplicó la estadística descriptiva utilizando el programa EpiDat 4.2. Resultados. Participaron 95 alumnas, el 49,92% conoce que el VPH es una infección viral, el 87,37% que su síntoma más común son las verrugas genitales, el 91,58% sabe que la infección por VPH afecta a ambos sexos, el 90,53% que se puede transmitir por vía sexual, 71,58% sabe que puede producir cáncer de cuello uterino y el 86,32% conoce que la vacunación es la principal medida de prevención. El 48% de las estudiantes tuvieron un buen nivel de conocimiento global sobre el VPH. Conclusión. El nivel insuficiente de conocimiento sobre VHP refleja la necesidad de realizar fortalecer el programa educativo universitario y campañas educativas con respecto al VPH y el cáncer de cuello uterino.

Introduction. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, causes various disorders in both men and women, and it is considered to be the main agent for the development of cervical cancer. Objective. To determine the level of knowledge about HPV among students in the second year of the different careers of the Universidad del Pacífico, Asunción, 2023. Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study was carried out with 2nd year students of the different careers of the Universidad del Pacifico in 2023, by means of a survey of knowledge about HPV, influence, and methods to prevent infection. Descriptive statistics using EpiDat 4.2 software were applied. Results. Of the 95 female students surveyed, 49.92% knew that HPV was a viral infection, 87.37% knew that the most common symptom was genital warts, 91.58% knew that HPV disease affects both sexes, 90.53% knew that it can be transmitted sexually, 71.58% knew that it could cause cervical cancer, and 86.32% knew that vaccination was the main prevention measure, 48% of the students have a good global knowledge about HPV. Conclusion. The insufficient level of knowledge about HPV reflects the need to strengthen the university educational program and educational campaigns regarding HPV and cervical cancer.

Acompanhamento Interdisciplinar de Servidores em Tratamento Oncológico: O Caso do Programa Ressignificar / Interdisciplinary Monitoring of Civil Servants in Cancer Treatment: The Case of the Ressignificar Program

Os números de adoecimento oncológico são crescentes, e o câncer é o principal problema de saúde pública no mundo. O trabalho é uma das dimensões da vida que se alteram no processo de adoecimento e tratamento oncológico. O servidor público municipal com diagnóstico oncológico passa por perícia e pode ter restrições médicas, readaptação profissional e até mesmo aposentadoria por incapacidade permanente. Este artigo é um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa e seu objetivo é descrever e problematizar o Programa Ressignificar, criado e implantado em um Departamento de Gestão de um município da Baixada Santista, que proporciona acompanhamento interdisciplinar dos servidores com diagnóstico de neoplasia em tratamento. Foram realizadas análise documental e construção de narrativas baseadas nas experiências de seis servidores participantes do Programa. As estatísticas apresentam alta prevalência do câncer de mama na população feminina. Dentre os acompanhados, 66,07% realizam o monitoramento por meio de exames periódicos, tornando possível o retorno ao trabalho, e 33,92% seguem em tratamento, afastados das atividades laborais. Os afastamentos são longos. As narrativas revelam vivências do adoecimento, relação com o trabalho, impacto do afastamento e apreciação do Ressignificar. Os resultados evidenciam a necessidade de dedicação ao tratamento, a centralidade do trabalho (identidade, socialização e sustento) e o medo da inutilidade. A readaptação representa desafio que pode ser oportunidade. O programa tem sido bem aceito, se mostrado eficiente e pertinente, proporcionando aos servidores um tratamento ao mesmo tempo institucional e personalizado. Espera-se que outras municipalidades, instituições públicas e privadas criem programas semelhantes.

The numbers on oncological illnesses are growing, and cancer is the main public health problem in the world. Work is one of the dimensions of life that change in the process of illness and cancer treatment. The municipal public servant with cancer diagnosis undergoes forensic medical evaluation and may have medical restrictions, professional rehabilitation and even retirement due to permanent disability. This article is a case study with a qualitative approach and its objective is to describe and problematize the Ressignificar Program, created and implemented in a Management Department of a municipality in Baixada Santista, which provides interdisciplinary monitoring of civil servants diagnosed with neoplasia under treatment. Documentary analysis and construction of narratives based on the experiences of six civil servants participating in the Program were carried out. Statistics show a high prevalence of breast cancer in the female population. Among those monitored, 66,07% perform monitoring through periodic examinations, making it possible to return to work, and 33,92% remain in treatment, away from work activities. The medical leaves are long. The narratives reveal experiences of illness, relationship with work, impact of medical leaves and appreciation of the Ressignificar Project. The results show the need for dedication to treatment, the centrality of work (identity, socialization and sustenance) and the fear of uselessness. Readaptation represents a challenge that can be an opportunity. The program has been well accepted, shown to be efficient and relevant, providing civil servants with both institutional and personalized treatment. Other municipalities, public and private institutions are expected to create similar programs.

An interdisciplinary therapy for lifestyle change is effective in improving psychological and inflammatory parameters in women with grade I obesity.

Obesity and depression, disorders associated with inflammation, have high incidences in women. Understanding the derangements present in the initial phase of obesity may point to factors that could help avoiding disease aggravation. The present study aimed at investigating the effects of a 6-months interdisciplinary therapy for weight loss in women with grade I obesity. Before and after the therapy, 37 middle-aged women donated blood and responded to questionnaires for depression and anxiety symptoms. Inflammatory parameters were evaluated in serum and a preliminary screening of the plasma proteome was performed. The therapy decreased anthropometric, psychological scores, and serum levels of inflammatory parameters. Depression and anxiety scores correlated positively with some inflammatory parameters. The proteomic analysis showed changes in proteins related to cholesterol metabolism and inflammatory response. Interdisciplinary therapy improves anthropometric and inflammatory statuses and ameliorating psychological symptoms. The decrease of MCP-1 levels after interdisciplinary therapy has not been reported so far, at the best of our knowledge. The present demonstration of positive associations of inflammatory markers and psychological scores indicate that these mediators may be useful to monitor psychological status in obesity. The present proteome data, although preliminary, pointed to plasma alterations indicative of improvement of inflammation after interdisciplinary therapy.

Incidence of Bacteriobilia and the Correlation with Antibioticoprophylaxis in Low-Risk Patients Submitted to Elective Videolaparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Cholelithiasis has a major impact on global health and affects an average of 20% of the Western population. The main risk factors are females, age over 40 years, obesity and pregnancy. Most of the time it is asymptomatic, but when there are symptoms, they are generally nonspecific. Bile was considered sterile, but today it is known that it contains a complex bacterial flora, which causes biofilm in the gallbladder and gallstones. Among the main bacteria associated with cholelithiasis are Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, species of Enterococcus spp. and Acinetobacter spp. Antibiotic prophylaxis is used in an attempt to reduce postoperative infections, especially at the surgical site. However, some authors found no relationship between the use of antibiotic prophylaxis and a lower risk of surgical site infection. Thus, the aim of this double-blind randomized clinical trial was to compare the existence or not of bacteriobilia in patients at low anesthetic risk who underwent videolaparoscopic cholecystectomy, and its correlation with the use of prophylactic antibiotics. This study included 40 patients between 18 and 65 years old, diagnosed with cholelithiasis, symptomatic or not, with low anesthetic risk classified by the American Society of Anesthesiology in ASA I or ASA II, without complications or previous manipulation of the bile duct, who underwent elective video cholecystectomy, divided into two groups: Experimental Group A (n = 20), which received 2 g of Cephalotin (first-generation Cephalosporin, Keflin®, ABL antibiotics, Cosmópolis, Brazil) during anesthetic induction, and Control Group B (n = 20), where no antibiotics were administered until bile collection. After the procedure, a bile sample was collected and culture and antibiogram were performed. In the sample, 22 (55%) were classified as ASA I and 18 (45%) as ASA II. It was observed that 81.8% of the patients who had a positive culture did not use antibiotics, against 18.2% of those who used prophylaxis. When comparing patients regarding anesthetic risk, ASA I patients had a positive culture in 9.1% of cases, against 90.9% in patients classified as ASA II. It was concluded that patients with higher anesthetic risk (ASA II) have a higher chance of bacteriobilia and benefit from antibiotic prophylaxis when compared to patients with lower anesthetic risk (ASA I).

Multiple Primary Melanoma: A Five-Year Prospective Single-Center Follow-Up Study of Two MC1R R/R Genotype Carriers.

BACKGROUND: Multiple primary melanoma (MPM) is a diagnostic challenge even with ancillary imaging technologies available to dermatologists. In selected patients' phenotypes, the use of imaging approaches can help better understand lesion characteristics, and aid in early diagnosis and management. METHODS: Under a 5-year prospective single-center follow-up, 58 s primary melanomas (SPMs) were diagnosed in two first-degree relatives, with fair skin color, red hair, green eyes, and personal history of one previous melanoma each. Patients' behavior and descriptive demographic data were collected from medical records. The information on the first two primary melanomas (PMs) were retrieved from pathology reports. The characteristics of 60 melanomas were collected from medical records, video dermoscopy software, and pathology reports. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) was performed prior to excision of 22 randomly selected melanomas. RESULTS: From February 2018 to May 2023, two patients underwent a pooled total of 214 excisional biopsies of suspect lesions, resulting in a combined benign versus malignant treatment ratio (NNT) of 2.0:1.0. The number of moles excised for each melanoma diagnosed (NNE) was 1.7:1.0 and 6.9:1.0 for the female and male patient respectively. The in-situ melanoma/invasive melanoma ratio (IIR) demonstrated a higher proportion of in-situ melanomas for both patients. From June 2018 to May 2023, a total of 58 SPMs were detected by the combination of total body skin exam (TBSE), total body skin photography (TBSP), digital dermoscopy (DD), and sequential digital dermoscopy imaging (SDDI) via comparative approach. The younger patient had her PM one month prior to the second and third cutaneous melanomas (CMs), characterizing a case of synchronous primary CM. The male older relative had a total of 7 nonsynchronous melanomas. CONCLUSIONS: This CM cohort is composed of 83.3% in-situ melanoma and 16.7% invasive melanoma. Both patients had a higher percentage of SPM with clinical nevus-like morphology (84.5%), global dermoscopic pattern of asymmetric multiple component (60.3%) and located on the lower limbs (46.6%). When RCM was performed prior to excision, 81% of SPM had features suggestive of malignancy. As well, invasive melanomas were more frequent in the lower limbs (40%). In the multivariate model, for the two high-risk patients studied, the chance of a not associated with nevus ("de novo") invasive SPM diagnosis is 25 times greater than the chance of a diagnosis of a nevus-associated invasive SPM.

Infección osteoarticular multifocal en un recién nacido / Multifocal osteoarticular infection in a neonate / Infecção osteoarticular multi-focal num recém-nascido

Tanto la osteomielitis como la osteoartritis séptica en el período neonatal son patologías infrecuentes. La afectación ósea de la columna cervical es aún más rara, siendo excepcional en neonatos. Son patologías graves, con elevada morbimortalidad, donde el diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz agresivo son de suma importancia para el pronóstico vital y funcional. Presentamos el caso de un neonato que presentó una sepsis a S. Aureus multirresistente, asociada a una osteomielitis de la primera vértebra cervical y a una osteoartritis séptica de la cadera izquierda. Fue tratado precozmente de forma quirúrgica y con antibioticoterapia, presentando una buena evolución.

Both osteomyelitis and septic osteoarthritis in the neonatal period are infrequent pathologies. Bone involvement of the cervical spine is even rarer, being exceptional in neonates. These are serious pathologies, with high morbimortality, where early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are of utmost importance for the vital and functional prognosis. We present the case of a neonate who presented with sepsis due to multidrug-resistant S. Aureus, associated with osteomyelitis of the first cervical vertebra and septic osteoarthritis of the left hip. He was treated early surgically and with antibiotic therapy, presenting a good evolution

Tanto a osteomielite como a osteoartrose séptica no período neonatal são patologias raras. O envolvimento ósseo da coluna cervical é ainda mais raro, sendo excepcional nos recém-nascidos. Estas são patologias graves, com elevada morbimortalidade, onde o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento agressivo são da maior importância para o prognóstico vital e funcional. Apresentamos o caso de um recém-nascido que apresentou sepse devido a S. Aureus multirresistente, associado a osteomielite da primeira vértebra cervical e osteoartrose séptica da anca esquerda. Foi tratado precocemente cirurgicamente e com terapia antibiótica, com uma boa evolução.

Towards an Efficient Method for Large-Scale Wi-SUN-Enabled AMI Network Planning.

In a smart grid communication network, positioning key devices (routers and gateways) is an NP-Hard problem as the number of candidate topologies grows exponentially according to the number of poles and smart meters. The different terrain profiles impose distinct communication losses between a smart meter and a key device position. Additionally, the communication topology must consider the position of previously installed distribution automation devices (DAs) to support the power grid remote operation. We introduce the heuristic method AIDA (AI-driven AMI network planning with DA-based information and a link-specific propagation model) to evaluate the connectivity condition between the meters and key devices. It also uses the link-received power calculated for the edges of a Minimum Spanning Tree to propose a simplified multihop analysis. The AIDA method proposes a balance between complexity and efficiency, eliminating the need for empirical terrain characterization. Using a spanning tree to characterize the connectivity topology between meters and routers, we suggest a heuristic approach capable of alleviating complexity and facilitating scalability. In our research, the interest is in proposing a method for positioning communication devices that presents a good trade-off between network coverage and the number of communication devices. The existing literature explores the theme by presenting different techniques for ideal device placement. Still rare are the references that meticulously explore real large-scale scenarios or the communication feasibility between meters and key devices, considering the detailed topography between the devices. The main contributions of this work include: (1) The presentation of an efficient AMI planning method with a large-scale focus; (2) The use of a propagation model that does not depend on an empirical terrain classification; and (3) The use of a heuristic approach based on a spanning tree, capable of evaluating a smaller number of connections and, even so, proposing a topology that uses fewer router and gateway positions compared to an approach that makes general terrain classification. Experiments in four real large-scale scenarios, totaling over 230,000 smart meters, demonstrate that AIDA can efficiently provide high-quality connectivity demanding a reduced number of devices. Additional experiments comparing AIDA's detailed terrain-based propagation model to the Erceg-SUI Path Loss model suggest that AIDA can reach the smart meter's coverage with a fewer router positions.

Psychometric validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Body Image Scale ­ HIV for people living with HIV/AIDS / Validação psicométrica da versão em português brasileiro da Body Image Scale ­ HIV para pessoas vivendo com HIV/AIDS

Introduction: Body Image can be defined as the mental representation of body identity. The surroundings, the gaze of the other, they emotions, they integrity, and our own fragility are elements of this representation. The social stigma caused by body changes in people living with HIV / AIDS may be more intense than the fear of death itself, being important to assess the impact of these changes in the course of treatment. Objective: To perform the psychometric validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Body Image Scale - HIV for a sample of Brazilians, of both sexes, living with HIV / AIDS. Methods: The total of 450 patients were recruited from the São Bernardo do Campo HIV/AIDS program, aged between 18 and 78 years. Confirmatory factor analysis using the Unweighted Least Square and listwise deletion was used to determine the adherence of the data to the models tested. Results: Adequate coefficients of internal reliability and evidence of construct validity were established for the Brazilian version of BIS-HIV in the unifactorial model. Conclusion:This scale, with evidenced psychometric qualities, provides a useful tool for quantitative investigations of body image in people with HIV/AIDS in the Brazilian context and extends the possibility of future cross-cultural research.

Introdução: a Imagem Corporal pode ser definida como a representação mental da identidade corporal. O meio que cerca o sujeito, o olhar do outro, suas emoções, a integridade e a própria fragilidade do corpo são elementos próprios desta representação. O estigma social provocado pelas alterações corporais nas pessoas que vivem com HIV/AIDS pode ser mais intenso que o próprio medo da morte, sendo importante acompanhar o impacto dessas alterações do decurso do tratamento.Objetivo: realizar a validação psicométrica da versão em português brasileiro da Body Image Scale ­ HIV para uma amostra de brasileiros, de ambos os sexos, vivendo com HIV/AIDS.Método: foram recrutados 450 pacientes de um ambulatório de HIV/AIDS de São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brasil, com idades entre 18 e 78 anos. A análise fatorial confirmatória, utilizando o Unweighted Least Square e deleção listwise, foi usada para determinar a aderência dos dados aos modelos testados.Resultados: coeficientes adequados de confiabilidade interna e evidência de validade de construto foram estabelecidos para a versão brasileira da BIS-HIV no modelo unifatorial.Conclusão: a escala foi validada e com suas qualidades psicométricas evidenciadas, fornece uma ferramenta útil para investigações quantitativas da imagem corporal em pessoas com HIV/AIDS no contexto brasileiro e amplia a possibilidade de futuras pesquisas transculturais.

Gamma-ray spectrometry of the Araguainha impact structure, Brazil: Additional insights into element mobilization due to hydrothermal alteration.

We present the analysis of airborne and ground gamma-ray spectrometry signatures of the Araguainha impact structure, located in central Brazil, the largest impact structure in South America with ~ 40 km diameter. The airborne data are total gamma-ray counts per second collected along flight lines spaced 1 km apart. The ground gamma-ray data are concentrations of potassium, uranium, and thorium isotopes calculated from radiations measured in three individual channels. The objectives are to distinguish lithologies within the structure, which have naturally distinctive radiogenic signatures, and identify potential post-impact hydrothermal alteration zones, as indicated by high K concentrations. Based on results obtained by numerical modeling of the crater formation, we infer the locations of potential occurrences of target rocks that may have undergone hydrothermal alteration as a result of the impact. The deviations from the background potassium concentration show significant anomalous K values at the center and in the northwestern crater rim, where high concentrations of U are also observed. The numerical model shows that ideal temperature conditions for hydrothermal fluid circulation were attained right after pos-impact gravitational stabilization.

In vivo assessment of antioxidant, antigenotoxic, and antimutagenic effects of bark ethanolic extract from Spondias purpurea L.

Medicinal plants have always been used for therapeutic purposes; however, some plants may contain toxic and mutagenic substances. The aim of this study was to assess the cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, antioxidant, antigenotoxic, and antimutagenic effects of the bark ethanolic extract of Spondias purpurea L. using male and female Swiss albino mice. To determine the protective effects of the extract, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and cyclophosphamide (CP) were selected as cell damage inducers. The extract was examined at doses of 500, 1000, or 1500 mg/kg body weight (BW)via gavage alone or concomitant with B[a]P or CP. Oxidative stress was measured by quantification of blood catalase activity (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in total blood, liver, and kidney, and concentrations of malondiadehyde (MDA) in liver and kidney. Genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity were evaluated by the comet assay using peripheral blood. Cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and antimutagenicity were determined utilizing the micronucleus test in bone marrow and peripheral blood. The S. purpurea L extract increased CAT activity and GSH levels accompanied by a decrease in MDA levels after treatment with B[a]P and CP. No genotoxic, cytotoxic, or mutagenic effects were found in mice exposed only to the extract. These results indicate that the extract of S. purpurea exhibited protective effects against oxidative and DNA damage induced by B[a]P and CP.

Malignant adnexal cutaneous tumor of the scalp: a case report of difficult differential diagnosis between metastatic breast cancer and primary sweat gland tumor / Neoplasia maligna de glândula anexial cutânea em couro cabeludo: um caso de dúvida diagnóstica entre carcinoma metastático de mama e tumor primário de glândula sudoríparas

This paper describes a case of a 71-year-old female who initially went to a dermatologist to assess a scalp skin tumor, which performed an incisional biopsy. Anatomopathological and immunohistochemical study revealed a preliminary diagnosis of breast carcinoma metastasis. Although the patient had no medical history of breast cancer, due to this result, she was referred to a mastologist, who investigated her breast nodules for the possible primary focus of the carcinoma. Despite an active investigation through imaging tests, biopsies, and mammotomy, without finding any possible primary focus on the breasts. Finally, the lesion on the scalp was entirely removed by a plastic surgeon. New anatomopathological and immunohistochemical exams confirmed the diagnosis of breast carcinoma metastasis. Given these results, the authors discuss the difficulty in diagnosing differentiation from a primary or metastatic neoplasm of the scalp, with the resources currently available, until the conclusion that it was a primary carcinoma of the sweat gland.

Este artigo descreve o caso de uma mulher de 71 anos que inicialmente foi ao dermatologista para avaliação de tumor de pele no couro cabeludo, e que realizou biópsia incisional desta lesão. O estudo anatomopatológico e imuno-histoquímico revelou um diagnóstico preliminar de metástase de carcinoma de mama. Embora a paciente não tivesse história clínica de câncer de mama, devido a esse resultado, foi encaminhada à mastologista, que investigou seus nódulos mamários para localizar o possível foco primário do carcinoma. Apesar de uma investigação ativa por meio de exames de imagem, biópsias e mamotomia, não foi encontrado nenhum possível foco primário nas mamas. Por fim, a lesão no couro cabeludo também foi totalmente removida por um cirurgião plástico. Novos exames anatomopatológicos e imuno-histoquímicos confirmaram o diagnóstico de metástase de carcinoma de mama. Diante desses resultados, os autores discutem a dificuldade em diagnosticar a diferenciação de uma neoplasia primária ou metastática do couro cabeludo, com os recursos disponíveis atualmente, até a conclusão de que se tratava de um carcinoma primário da glândula sudorípara.

What Do Influenza and COVID-19 Represent for Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are a group of immune and inflammatory diseases; and patients seem to be more vulnerable to influenza and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These conditions are characterized by the augmented release of inflammatory cytokines that have been suggested as potential triggers for the acute respiratory distress syndrome, which may favor severe and even fatal outcomes. For these reasons, this review aims to evaluate what influenza and COVID-19 may represent for patients with IBD. METHODS: The search was performed in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to build the review. RESULTS: The conventional therapies used by IBD patients may also interfere in the outcomes of influenza and COVID-19. Immune-suppressors agents are associated with a higher risk of infections due to the inhibition of intracellular signals necessary to the host act against pathogens. On the other hand, drugs related to the suppression of the production of cytokines in IBD could bring benefits to reduce mucosal inflammation, and for preventing pneumonia. Moreover, coronaviruses can bind to the target cells through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor that is expressed in epithelial cells of the lung and largely the colon and the terminal ileum suggesting that human intestinal tract could be an alternative route for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). CONCLUSIONS: Once the cytokine storm observed in influenza and COVID-19 is similar to the cytokine pattern observed in IBD patients during the disease flares, the advice is that avoiding the infections is still an optimal option for IBD subjects.

Protective effects of Bidens pilosa on hepatoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats.

The aim of this study was to assess the protective effects of oral and topical treatment with Bidens pilosa (BP) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- induced toxicity. Fifty-six rats were divided into seven groups: A: CCl4 only; B: CCl4+oral BP; C: CCl4 and topical BP; D: CCl4+oral and topical BP; E: oral BP only; F: negative control; and G: positive control (cyclophosphamide). The animals were treated for 10 weeks. Blood samples were collected for tests of hepatic and renal function, and fragments of the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, and intestine were collected for histopathological analyses. Cells from the femoral bone marrow were used for a micronucleus test and 'comet assay'. Statistically significant differences were observed in the levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), albumin, urea and creatinine, hepatic inflammation, renal tubular lesion, and inflammation of the intestinal mucosa between the BP-treated groups and untreated group. The median number of micronuclei in group A was 4.00, in group G was 9.00 and in the other groups was 0.00. Group A had the lowest number of cells with a score of 0 and the greatest number with scores of 3 and 4, similar to the results obtained from group G using the 'comet assay'. Thus, BP effectively protected against the toxic effects of CCl4 on the liver, kidney, and intestine and exerted an antimutagenic effect on rats exposed to CCl4.

Psychometric Validation of the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Derriford Appearance Scale-24 (DAS-24) for People Living with HIV/AIDS.

The changes in appearance of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) interferes with how people around them react to their body, how social interactions take place, and how each person perceives and accepts their body. The definition of itself can be severely challenged when the body changes as a result of illness and the person does not look healthier anymore. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) are an especially vulnerable group when it comes to "distress" and the psychosocial impact of appearance, yet the assessment of body image changes in these people was subjective in Brazil. The aim of this paper was to assess the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24) for a sample of Brazilians living with HIV/AIDS. A sample of 400 patients were recruited from an HIV/AIDS ambulatory, aged between 18 and 78 years, of both sexes. The psychometric properties of DAS-24 were investigated while using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), with unweighted least square estimation and listwise deletion for missing data. The adjustment of three structural models previously established for DAS-24 (single-factor, two-factor, and three-factor) was investigated. Evidences of construct validity-convergent and discriminant-and internal consistency-Cronbach's alpha and construct reliability-were also generated for the measure model. The results showed that the one-factor model had the best adjustment, after eliminating items 8, 17, and 20, and accepting the covariance of errors between items 4 and 10; 9 and 23; 11 and 14; and, 14 and 22. Additionally, validity and reliability evidence were satisfactory for the model. The Brazilian Portuguese version of DAS-24 seems to be a psychometrically sound scale for measuring body image distress for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA).

Pseudocisto pancreático simulando lesão cística neoplásica de cabeça de pâncreas: relato de caso / Pancreatic pseudocyst simulating neoplastic pancreatic head injury: case report

Introdução: os cistos pancreáticos são diagnosticados, em sua maioria, como achados acidentais em pacientes submetidos à exame físico de rotina ou exame radiológico abdominal. As lesões neoplásicas representam 10-15% de todas as lesões pancreáticas. Relato de caso: Relatamos o caso de um paciente com 41 anos de idade apresentando pseudocisto de cabeça de pâncreas com diagnóstico pré-operatório sugestivo de neoplasia sólido-cística. Conclusão: O manejo das neoplasias císticas de pâncreas apresenta-se como um desafio. Os exames de imagem tiveram um papel essencial no diagnóstico diferencial. A ressecção cirúrgica continua sendo padrão ouro para pacientes sintomáticos e com elevada probabilidade de malignidade.

Introduction: cystic lesions of the pancreas are mostly diagnosed as accidental findings in patients undergoing routine physical examination or abdominal radiological examination. Neoplastic pancreatic cysts represent 10-15% of all pancreatic lesions. Case report: We report the case of a 41-year-old patient with a pancreatic head pseudocyst with a preoperative diagnosis suggestive of solid-cystic neoplasm. Conclusion: The management of cystic pancreatic neoplasms is a challenge. Imaging exams played an essential role in the differential diagnosis. Surgical resection remains the gold standard for symptomatic patients with high probability of malignancy.

On-Farm Surfaces in Contact with Milk: The Role of Staphylococcus aureus-Containing Biofilms for Udder Health and Milk Quality.

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium that causes intramammary infections and bulk tank milk (BTM) contamination in dairy operations around the world in spite of on-farm application of preventive measures. The study was conducted on a 30-cow dairy farm in the Ñuble Region of Chile. For BTM culture and somatic cell count (SCC) analysis, three consecutive BTM samples were collected. Samples for bacterial culture (n = 16) were collected from macroscopic adherence on previously washed, sanitized, and dry milking equipment surfaces in direct contact with milk during milking or cooling. A total of 48 S. aureus isolates from BTM, milking equipment, and cows' quarters with intramammary infections were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Selected milking equipment pieces were removed for biofilm visualization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). S. aureus was isolated from all three BTM samples; the average SCC for the three BTM samples was 1,429,333 cells/mL. Fourteen of the 16 samples of milking equipment (87.5%) were culture positive for S. aureus. Biofilms were visualized by SEM in all four removed milking equipment pieces. Microorganisms observed by SEM in those biofilms were mainly coccus-shaped bacteria, and microbiological culture of these biofilms yielded viable S. aureus isolates in all samples. All pulsotypes observed among S. aureus isolates from BTM were indistinguishable from those in milking equipment surfaces. All PFGE pulsotypes observed among S. aureus isolates from biofilms on rubber liners were indistinguishable from isolates from intramammary infections in cows. Our findings suggest that milking equipment films may act as source of S. aureus contamination for BTM and cows during milking, thus compromising the microbiological quality of milk used for manufacturing dairy products.

Neuroendocrine Control, Inflammation, and Psychological Aspects After Interdisciplinary Therapy in Obese Women.

Obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease promoted by positive energy balance. The objective was to evaluate the effects of interdisciplinary therapy in the neuroendocrine control of food intake, inflammatory markers, and psychological aspects in obese women. Forty-seven obese women (43.32±5.82 years, 34.86±3.08 kg/m2), aged 30-50 years, participated in an interdisciplinary lifestyle change therapy, consisting of nutritional counseling, physical exercises, and psychological therapy for 36 weeks. After the long-term therapy, there was a decrease in body weight (Δ -5.36 kg), BMI (Δ -2.01 kg/m2), abdominal (Δ -9.09 cm), hip (Δ -5.03 cm), and thigh (Δ -5.07 cm) perimeters. There was also a significant improvement in body composition, with an increase in fat-free mass (Δ 1.60%) and reduction of body fat (Δ -3.74 kg). The therapy proposed also provided an improvement in depression scores (Δ -6.63), anxiety (Δ -4.07), body image (Δ -25.25), and binge eating (Δ -5.25). There was a significant reduction in serum levels of leptin (Δ -15.62 ng/ml). The interdisciplinary therapy was able to provide both, physical and psychological benefits in energy balance, which enables the use of this model as a feasible clinical strategy for the treatment of obesity.

Cross Cultural adaptation into Brazilian Portuguese language of Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24) for people living with HIV/AIDS / Adaptação cultural em Português Brasileiro da Derriford Appearance Scale - 24 (DAS-24) para pessoas vivendo com HIV/AIDS

INTRODUCTION: Body image can be defined as the representation of beliefs, emotions and perceptions about the body itself, manifested in behaviors directed to the body. When the body changes because of a disease and does not seem healthy, the self-concept may be severely challenged. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) are particularly vulnerable to the distress and psychosocial impact of appearance, but in Brazil the assessment of those body image changes was subjective because there was not an available scale in Brazilian Portuguese to assess body image changes in clinical practice or research. OBJECTIVE: To carry out the cross-cultural adaptation to the Brazilian Portuguese of the Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24), with the verification of the linguistic, semantic, conceptual and cultural equivalence of the people living with HIV/AIDS in Brazil METHODS: We followed the five stages of culturally sensitive translation: direct translations, synthesis of translations, back-translations, expert committee meeting and pre-tests. The process of cultural adaptation was presented in a descriptive and analytical way, following patterns of methodological studies. The minimum, maximum and median values of the responses of each item were calculated from the pool of data from the third pretest group of 50 participants. The median of the item scores, the correlation on each item with the total score and the internal reliability, were calculated using the Cronbach alpha test. RESULTS: The analysis of the responses of the last pre-test group indicated that attention must be given to items A, H, T and V in a future psychometric study. The present study is not enough for this scale to be used in clinical practice. To ensure that the culturally adapted instrument generates valid and reliable data, a subsequent study investigating its psychometric properties should be conducted. CONCLUSION: The cross-cultural adaptation of the Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24) in its components of linguistic, semantic, conceptual and cultural equivalence to Brazilian Portuguese for the population of people living with HIV/AIDS was fully carried out. Despite this achievement, it is emphasized that the use of the Brazilian version of DAS-24 in research and clinical routine is advised only after a psychometric study with this instrument.

INTRODUÇÃO: A imagem corporal pode ser definida como a representação das crenças, emoções e percepções a respeito do próprio corpo, manifesta em comportamentos voltados ao corpo. Quando o corpo muda como consequência de doença e não parece mais saudável, a definição de si mesmo pode ser severamente desafiada. As pessoas vivendo com HIV/AIDS (PVHA) são um público especialmente vulnerável quando se trata do "distress" e do impacto psicossocial da aparência, mas a avaliação destas alterações de imagem corporal era subjetiva porque não havia nenhuma escala em Português Brasileiro para avaliar alterações da imagem disponível para uso clínico ou para pesquisa. OBJETIVO: Realizar a adaptação transcultural para o português Brasileiro da Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24), com a verificação da equivalência idiomática, semântica, conceitual e cultural, para o público-alvo pessoas vivendo com HIV/AIDS (PVHA) no Brasil MÉTODO: Seguiu-se guia de cinco etapas para adaptação de escala transcultural: traduções, síntese de traduções, retrotraduções, reunião de comitê de especialistas e pré-testes. O processo de adaptação cultural foi apresentado de forma descritiva e analítica, seguindo padrões de estudos metodológicos. Os valores mínimo, máximo e mediano das respostas de cada item foram calculados a partir do pool de dados do terceiro grupo de pré-teste de 50 participantes. A mediana dos escores dos itens, a correlação de cada item com o escore total e a confiabilidade interna foram calculados pelo teste alfa de Cronbach. RESULTADO: A análise das respostas do último grupo pré-teste indicou que deve ser dada atenção aos itens A, B, G, H e K em um futuro estudo psicométrico. O presente estudo não é suficiente para que essa escala seja utilizada na prática clínica. Para garantir que o instrumento culturalmente adaptado gere dados válidos e confiáveis, um estudo subsequente que investigue suas propriedades psicométricas deve ser conduzido. CONCLUSÃO: A adaptação transcultural da Derriford Appearance Scale 24 (DAS-24), em seus componentes de equivalência linguística, semântica, conceitual e cultural para o português brasileiro para a população de pessoas vivendo com HIV/AIDS foi plenamente realizada. Apesar dessa conquista, ressalta-se que o uso da versão brasileira do DAS-24 em pesquisa e rotina clínica é aconselhado somente após um estudo psicométrico com este instrumento.

Arthropods of medical importance and profile of associated accidents for the municipality of São Miguel do Oeste, Santa Catarina state / Artrópodes de importância médica e perfil dos acidentes associados para o município de São Miguel do Oeste, Santa Catarina / Artrópodos de importancia médica y perfil de los accidentes asociados en la municipalidad de São Miguel do Oeste, provincia de Santa Catarina

Justificativa e Objetivos: Artrópodes são de longe os animais mais comuns na Terra em indivíduos totais e táxons descritos. No Brasil, a importância dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos, nos quais se incluem acidentes por artrópodes peçonhentos, pode ser expressa pelos mais de 100 mil casos e cerca de 200 óbitos registrados ao ano. Os serviços públicos de saúde têm aumentado as notificações deste tipo de acidente nos estados da região sul do Brasil, principalmente os ocorridos na zona rural. Este acréscimo decorre das modificações do ambiente natural pelo desmatamento e pelos diferentes usos do solo pelo homem. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a ocorrência de acidentes com artrópodes peçonhentos e o perfil social dos acidentes associados no município de São Miguel do Oeste, no período de 2007 a 2016. Métodos: Trata-se de um transversal e retrospectivo, com dados obtidos nas fichas de notificação e investigação individual do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan). Resultados: A predominância dos acidentes envolveu pessoas do sexo masculino para lonomismo e outras lagartas venenosas e do sexo feminino para loxoscelismo, ocorreram mais frequentemente no ambiente urbano e envolveram a faixa etária entre 20 a 59 anos, afetando a população economicamente ativa. Conclusões: O estudo contribui para a compreensão dos determinantes para a ocorrência de animais peçonhentos em uma região de fronteira e fornece embasamento para as políticas públicas de promoção da saúde e de prevenção de agravos.(AU)

Background and Objectives: Arthropods are by far the most common animals on Earth in total individuals and described taxa. In Brazil, the importance of accidents involving venomous animals, which include accidents with venomous arthropods, can be expressed by more than 100 thousand cases and about 200 recorded deaths per year. The public health services have increased the notifications of this type of accident in the states of the southern region of Brazil, mainly those occurred in the rural area. This increase is due to changes in the natural environment caused by deforestation and the different uses of the soil by man. The objective of this study was to describe the occurrence of accidents with venomous arthropods and the social profile of associated accidents in the municipality of São Miguel do Oeste, from 2007 to 2016. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and retrospective study, with data obtained from the notification forms and individual investigation of the Information System for Notifiable Diseases (Sinan). Results: The predominance of accidents involved men for lonomism and other venomous caterpillars and women for loxoscelism, accidents occurred more frequently in the urban environment and involved the age group between 20 and 59 years, affecting the economically active population. Conclusions: The study contributes to understand the determinants of the occurrence of venomous animals in a border area and provides a basis for public policies for health promotion and disease prevention.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: Los artrópodos son de lejos los animales más comunes en la Tierra en individuos totales y taxones descritos. En Brasil, la importancia de los accidentes por animales venenosos, en los que se incluyen accidentes por artrópodos venenosos, puede ser expresada por los más de 100 mil casos y cerca de 200 muertes registradas al año. Los servicios públicos de salud han aumentado las notificaciones de este tipo de accidentes en los estados de la región sur de Brasil, principalmente los ocurridos en la zona rural. Este acrecimiento se deriva de las modificaciones del ambiente natural por la deforestación y por los diferentes usos del suelo por el hombre. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la ocurrencia de accidentes con artrópodos venenosos y el perfil social de los accidentes asociados en el municipio de São Miguel del Oeste, en el período de 2007 a 2016. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la ocurrencia de los accidentes con artrópodos venenosos y el perfil de los accidentes asociados en la municipalidad de São Miguel do Oeste, provincia de Santa Catarina, de 2007 a 2016. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo exploratorio cuantitativo, con datos obtenidos de los formularios de notificación e investigación individual del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (Sinan). Resultados: El predominio de accidentes involucró a hombres para el lonomismo y otras orugas venenosas y mujeres para loxoscelismo. Los accidentes ocurrieron con mayor frecuencia en el entorno urbano e involucraron al grupo de edad entre 20 y 59 años, afectando a la población económicamente activa. Conclusiones: El estudio contribuye a comprender los determinantes de la presencia de animales venenosos en un área fronteriza y proporciona una base para las políticas públicas de promoción de la salud y prevención de enfermedades.(AU)