Maternal mortality in Brazil: an analysis of temporal trends and spatial clustering. / Mortalidade materna no Brasil: análise de tendências temporais e agrupamentos espaciais.

This article aims to analyze spatial and temporal patterns of maternal mortality in Brazil during the period 2010-2020 and identify related socioeconomic indicators. We conducted an ecological study of the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in Brazil's municipalities using secondary data. Temporal analysis was performed using the joinpoint method. Bayesian statistics, spatial autocorrelation, the Getis Ord Gi* technique and the scan statistic were used to identify spatial clusters, and multiple non-spatial and spatial regression models were used to assess the association between factors and the MMR. There was an increase in the MMR in 2020 and an increase in deaths in the North and Southeast. Clusters were found in Amazonas, Tocantins, Piauí, Maranhão, Bahia and Mato Grosso do Sul. The following indicators were negatively associated with the MMR: cesarean section rate, Municipal Human Development Index, and per capita household income of people who are vulnerable to poverty. The MMR was stable up to 2019, followed by a sharp rise in 2020 coinciding with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in the country. It is essential that efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Brazil extend beyond the promotion of improvements in antenatal, childbirth and postpartum care to address the social determinants of the problem.

O objetivo do artigo é analisar o padrão espacial e temporal e identificar indicadores socioeconômicos relacionados à razão de mortalidade materna (RMM) no Brasil de 2010 a 2020. Estudo ecológico que analisou a RMM nos municípios do Brasil, utilizando dados secundários. Para análise temporal, utilizou-se o método joinpoint. Para a identificação de aglomerados espaciais, utilizou-se estatística bayesiana, autocorrelação espacial, a técnica Getis Ord Gi* e a varredura scan. Para a identificação dos fatores associados à RMM, foram adotados modelos múltiplos de regressão não espacial e espacial. Observou-se aumento da RMM de 2019 para 2020. Houve crescimento de óbitos nas regiões Norte e Sudeste. Os clusters foram encontrados no Amazonas, Tocantins, Piauí, Maranhão, Bahia e Mato Grosso do Sul. Estão negativamente relacionados à RMM os seguintes indicadores: taxa de parto cesáreo, índice de desenvolvimento humano municipal e renda domiciliar per capita dos vulneráveis à pobreza. Embora a tendência temporal tenha se mostrado constante até 2019, a RMM apresentou crescimento no ano de início da pandemia de COVID-19 no país. A redução da MM no Brasil vai além da promoção de melhorias na assistência gravídico-puerperal, sendo fundamental focar também nos determinantes sociais do problema.

Effect of proton pump inhibitors on susceptibility and melanogenesis of Sporothrix species.

Introduction. Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous infection caused by dimorphic Sporothrix species embedded in the clinical clade. Fungi have virulence factors, such as biofilm and melanin production, which contribute to their survival and are related to the increase in the number of cases of therapeutic failure, making it necessary to search for new options.Gap statement. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have already been shown to inhibit the growth and melanogenesis of other fungi.Aim. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the PPIs omeprazole (OMP), rabeprazole (RBP), esomeprazole, pantoprazole and lansoprazole on the susceptibility and melanogenesis of Sporothrix species, and their interactions with itraconazole, terbinafine and amphotericin B.Methodology. The antifungal activity of PPIs was evaluated using the microdilution method, and the combination of PPIs with itraconazole, terbinafine and amphotericin B was assessed using the checkerboard method. The assessment of melanogenesis inhibition was assessed using grey scale.Results. The OMP and RBP showed significant MIC results ranging from 32 to 256 µg ml-1 and 32 to 128 µg ml-1, respectively. Biofilms were sensitive, with a significant reduction (P<0.05) in metabolic activity of 52% for OMP and 50% for RBP at a concentration of 512 µg ml-1 and of biomass by 53% for OMP and 51% for RBP at concentrations of 512 µg ml-1. As for the inhibition of melanogenesis, only OMP showed inhibition, with a 54% reduction.Conclusion. It concludes that the PPIs OMP and RBP have antifungal activity in vitro against planktonic cells and biofilms of Sporothrix species and that, in addition, OMP can inhibit the melanization process in Sporothrix species.

Salivary cytokine profile in patients with oral lichen planus / Perfil de citoquinas salivales en pacientes con liquen plano oral

Abstract This study aimed to determine salivary concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-10, IL- 23, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitrate (a by-product of nitric oxide oxidation), and cortisol in patients with oral lichen planus (OLP). Twenty patients diagnosed with OLP and 20 sex-matched healthy volunteers (HV) were included in this cross-sectional study. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected in the morning. Salivary cytokine and cortisol concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Nitrate was measured in a nitric oxide analyzer. We found higher salivary concentrations of IL-2 (p<0.003), IL-23 ( p<0.04), and TGF-β (p=0.05) in patients with OLP compared to HV. No significant differences were found in salivary levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, or IL-10. Nitrate concentrations were markedly increased in OLP patients (1,227.0 ± 738.8 µM/mg total protein) when compared to HV (261.6 ± 166.8 µM/mg; p<0.0001). Salivary cortisol levels were also higher in OLP patients (2.79 ± 1.39 vs. 1.94 ±1.21 ng/mg; p<0.048). The markedly increased salivary levels of nitric oxide in patients with OLP suggest a relationship of this molecule with the cell death and tissue damage observed in these lesions.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar las concentraciones salivales de interleucina (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-10, IL-23, factor de crecimiento transformante (TGF)-β y factor de necrosis tumoral (TNF)-α, nitrato (subproducto de la oxidación del óxido nítrico) y cortisol en pacientes con liquen plano oral (OLP). En este estudio transversal se incluyeron veinte pacientes diagnosticados con OLP y 20 voluntarios sanos (HV) del mismo sexo. Saliva entera no estimulada Se recolectó por la mañana, se determinaron las concentraciones de citocinas y cortisol en saliva mediante ensayo inmunoabsorbente ligado a enzimas (ELISA), se determinó nitrato mediante un analizador de óxido nítrico, se encontraron concentraciones salivales mayores de IL-2 (p<0,003), IL- 23 (p<0,04) y TGF-β (p=0,05) en pacientes con OLP en comparación con HV. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en los niveles salivales de TNF-α, IL-1β e IL-10. Las concentraciones de nitrato fueron marcadamente aumentó en pacientes con OLP (1227,0 ± 738,8 µM/mg de proteína total), en comparación con HV (261,6 ± 166,8 µM/mg; p<0,0001). Los niveles de cortisol salival también fueron más altos en los pacientes con OLP que en los controles (2,79 ± 1,39 vs. 1,94 ±1,21 ng/mg; p<0,048). Los niveles de óxido nítrico en saliva aumentaron notablemente en pacientes con OLP, lo que sugiere una relación de esta molécula con la muerte celular y el daño tisular observado en las lesiones de OLP.

Recent advances in Emulsan production, purification, and application: Exploring bioemulsifiers unique potentials.

Bioemulsifiers are compounds produced by microorganisms that reduce the interfacial forces between hydrophobic substances and water. Due to their potential in the pharmaceutical and food industries and their efficiency in oil spill remediation, they have been the subject of study in the scientific community while being safe, biodegradable, and sustainable compared to synthetic options. These biomolecules have high molecular weight and polymeric structures, distinguishing them from traditional biosurfactants. Emulsan, a bioemulsifier exopolysaccharide, is produced by Acinetobacter strains and is highly efficient in forming stable emulsions. Its low toxicity and high potential as an emulsifying agent promote its application in pharmaceutical and food industries as a drug-delivery vehicle and emulsion stabilizer. Due to the high environmental impact of oil spills, bioemulsifiers have great potential for environmental applications, such as bioremediation. This unique feature gives them a distinct mechanism of action in forming emulsions, resulting in minimal environmental impact. A better understanding of these aspects can improve the use of bioemulsifiers and environmental remediation in various industries. This review will discuss the production and characterization of Emulsan, focusing on recent advancements in cultivation conditions, purification techniques, compound identification, and ecotoxicity.

The use of green protic ionic liquids in the crystallization of isoniazid: Evaluation of physicochemical and biological properties of drug.

This study evaluated the synthesis of protic ionic liquids (PILs), 2-hydroxy ethylammonium formate (2-HEAF) and 2-hydroxy ethylammonium acetate (2-HEAA), and their applicability in the crystallization process of the active pharmaceutical ingredient isoniazid (INH) as anti-solvent. Isoniazid is an antibiotic used in the treatment of tuberculosis infections, being used as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Futhermore, this investigation was conducted in order to evaluate how these PILs can influence the habit, solubility, stability, and therapeutic efficiency of the obtained isoniazid crystals. The 2-HEAF and 2-HEAA PILs were easily formed in reactions between ethanolamine and carboxylic acids (formic or acetic acid), and they have no toxicity against Artemia salina. The PILs were able to crystallize isoniazid, influencing the crystal habit and size. The greatest variations in the hydrogen signals of the NH2 and NH groups of the amine and low variations in the chemical shifts of the hydrogens of the cation of the ethanolamine group from 2-HEAA and 2-HEAF indicate that PILs establish possibly weak interactions with INH. The obtained crystals were amorphous and showed higher solubility in water than standard INH. Moreover, these crystals showed therapeutic efficiency inantimycobacterial activity to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The INH:2-HEAF only degraded 5.1 % (w/w), however, INH:2-HEAA degraded 32.8 % (w/w) after 60 days in an accelerated atmosphere. Then, the 2-HEAA and 2-HEAF were able to crystallize isoniazid, being a new application for these PILs. The used PILs also influenced the characteristics of isoniazid crystals.

Diel and seasonal mixing patterns and water quality dynamics in a multipurpose tropical semiarid reservoir.

Eutrophication has become a recurrent concern in reservoirs worldwide. This problem is intensified in tropical semiarid regions, where the reservoirs have high seasonal and annual variability of water level and volume. Therefore, an extensive understanding of the diel variation of water quality key-parameters can help improve management of such reservoirs. This study focuses on Castanhão reservoir with the largest multipurpose dam in the Brazilian semiarid. Its main water uses are irrigation, fish farming, and human supply. The reservoir faced a decline in water quality due to a prolonged drought period. While previous research has predominantly emphasized the seasonal dynamics of thermal and chemical stratification, our investigation provides diel assessments of multiple water quality parameters, including nutrient concentrations and phytoplankton abundance. Our primary objective is to compare seasonal and diel variations in stratification and nutrient distribution within the reservoir. Key findings reveal a diel cycle of thermal stratification, primarily during dry season, driven by higher wind speeds. This is corroborated by a significant negative correlation between wind speed and the relative water column stability index. In contrast, during the rainy season, the reservoir experiences continuous thermal stratification due to inflowing water being warmer than the reservoir's water temperature. Notably, a significant negative correlation between total phosphorus and chlorophyll-a, along with a two-fold increase of this nutrient throughout the day during the rainy season, underscores the influence of the phytoplankton community dynamics on the diel nutrient variation. Chemical stratification of dissolved oxygen occurred during dry and rainy seasons, indicating that even during the dry season, where there is no significant inflow, the internal nutrient loading can also significantly impact the water quality of a reservoir. This study advances the understanding of diel water quality dynamics in tropical semiarid reservoirs, shedding light on both climatic and anthropogenic influences on water resources.

Factores relacionados al interés e intención al uso de profilaxis preexposición al VIH en hombres gay y/o bisexuales, Colombia / Factors related to the interest and intention of using pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV in gay and/or bisexual men, Colombia / Fatores relacionados ao interesse e intenção de usar profilaxia pré-exposição ao HIV em homens gays e/ou bissexuais, Colômbia

Resumen Introducción: la profilaxis preexposición al VIH (PrEP) ha demostrado disminuir la incidencia del VIH, pero su adopción en Colombia es aún incipiente. Para avanzar en la implementación de la PrEP como intervención de salud pública es necesario conocer el interés de las poblaciones en riesgo de VIH y los factores que facilitarían su uso. Objetivo: identificar los factores relacionados con el interés e intención de tomar PrEP en hombres gay/bisexuales. Metodología: estudio transversal analítico en una muestra no probabilística en ciudades principales de Colombia. Se exploraron las características sociodemográficas, conocimiento, motivaciones, habilidades conductuales y factores psicosociales, se utilizaron modelos logísticos para estimar la relación de estos factores con el interés y la intención de usar la PrEP. Resultados y conclusiones: participaron 552 hombres gay/bisexuales, 301 (54 %) reclutados en línea y 251 en persona. Solo el 40 % de la muestra sabía de la existencia de PrEP. 57.4 % (IC95%:54.9%-62.4%) reportaron interés e 52.9 % (IC95%: 48.5%-57.3%) intención de usar PrEP. El interés y la intención de usar la PrEP se relacionaron con actitudes y normas positivas hacia PrEP, así como con mayores habilidades relacionadas con servicios de PrEP. El estigma hacia la PrEP y los síntomas depresivos se relacionaron con menor interés e intención. Los resultados sugieren la necesidad de fomentar la información sobre PrEP, especialmente en poblaciones con más desventajas sociales y que experimentan más estigma, al igual que desarrollar intervenciones comunitarias que apoyen las motivaciones y las habilidades para usar la PrEP.

Abstract Introduction: HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been shown to reduce the incidence of HIV, but its adoption in Colombia is still beginning. To advance the implementation of PrEP as a public health intervention, it is necessary to know the interest of populations at risk of HIV and the factors that would facilitate its use. Objective: Identify factors related to interest and intention to take PrEP in gay/bisexual men. Methodology: Analytical cross-sectional study in a non-probabilistic sample in main cities of Colombia. Sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, motivations, behavioral skills, and psychosocial factors were explored; logistic models were used to estimate the relationship of these factors with interest and intention to use PrEP. Results and conclusions: 552 gay/bisexual men participated, 301 (54%) recruited online and 251 in person. Only 40% of the sample knew of the existence of PrEP. 57.4% (95% CI: 54.9%-62.4%) reported interest and 52.9% (95% CI: 48.5%-57.3%) intention to use PrEP. Interest and intention to use PrEP were related to positive attitudes and norms toward PrEP, as well as greater skills related to PrEP services. Stigma toward PrEP and depressive symptoms were related to lower interest and intention. Our results suggest the need to promote information about PrEP, especially in populations with more social disadvantages and who experience more stigma, as well as to develop community interventions that support motivations and skills to use PrEP.

Resumo Introdução: Foi demonstrado que a profilaxia pré-exposição ao VIH (PrEP) reduz a incidência do VIH, mas a sua adopção na Colômbia está apenas a começar. Para avançar na implementação da PrEP como intervenção de saúde pública, é necessário conhecer o interesse das populações em risco de VIH e os fatores que facilitariam a sua utilização. Objetivo: Identificar fatores relacionados ao interesse e intenção de tomar PrEP em homens gays/bissexuais. Metodologia: Estudo analítico transversal em amostra não probabilística nas principais cidades da Colômbia. Foram exploradas características sociodemográficas, conhecimentos, motivações, habilidades comportamentais e fatores psicossociais; modelos logísticos foram utilizados para estimar a relação desses fatores com o interesse e intenção de uso da PrEP. Resultados e conclusões: Participaram 552 homens gays/bissexuais, 301 (54%) recrutados online e 251 pessoalmente. Apenas 40% da amostra sabia da existência da PrEP. 57,4% (IC 95%: 54,9%-62,4%) relataram interesse e 52,9% (IC 95%: 48,5%-57,3%) intenção de usar a PrEP. O interesse e a intenção de usar a PrEP estavam relacionados com atitudes e normas positivas em relação à PrEP, bem como com maiores competências relacionadas com os serviços de PrEP. O estigma em relação à PrEP e os sintomas depressivos foram relacionados com menor interesse e intenção. Os nossos resultados sugerem a necessidade de promover informação sobre a PrEP, especialmente em populações com mais desvantagens sociais e que sofrem mais estigma, bem como desenvolver intervenções comunitárias que apoiem motivações e competências para usar a PrEP.

Bioemulsifier production by Acinetobacter venetianus AMO1502: Potential for bioremediation and environmentally friendly applications.

At the best conditions of the bioprocess (30 °C, pH 7.0, 3.0 g/L NaCl) were obtained 0.66 g/L cell concentration, 3.3 g/L of bioemulsifier, which showed high emulsifying activity (53 % ± 2), reducing the surface tension of the water in 47.2 % (38 mN/m). The polymeric structure of the purified bioemulsifier comprised a carbohydrate backbone composed of hexose-based amino sugars with a monomeric mass of 1099 Da, structurally similar to emulsan. A. venetianus bioemulsifier is non-phytotoxic (GI% > 80 %) against Ocimum basilicum and Brassica oleracea and non-cytotoxic (LC50 5794 mg/L) against Artemia salina, being safe local organisms in comparison to other less eco-friendly synthetic emulsifiers. This bioemulsifier effectively dispersed spilled oil in vitro (C22-C33), reducing oil mass by 12 % (w/w) and dispersing oil in a displacement area of 75 cm2 (23.8 % of the spilled area). Thus, the isolated A. venetianus AMO1502 produced a bioemulsifier potentially applicable for environmentally friendly oil spill remediation.

O papel da escola e da Educação Física no controle do sobrepeso e obesidade juvenil na perspectiva de professores atuantes no ensino superior / The role of schools and Physical Education in the control of overweight and juvenile obesity from the perspective of teachers working in higher education / El papel de las escuelas y la Educación Física en el control del sobrepeso y la obesidad juvenil desde la perspectiva de docentes que trabajan en la educación superior

O presente artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa quantitativa com viés exploratório descritivo, cujo objetivo foi analisar a percepção de 22 professores de Educação Física (18 homens e 04 mulheres), atuantes no magistério superior, sobre o papel da escola e da Educação Física no controle do sobrepeso e obesidade juvenil. Foi utilizada versão adaptada do Perceptions of Youth Obesity and Physical Education Questionnaire. A análise dos dados deu-se a partir das seguintes categorias: percepção da obesidade juvenil, papel da escola e papel da Educação Física permitiu inferir que os professores percebem a escola como um espaço potencial para a promoção de ações, como a oferta de disciplinas curriculares voltadas ao controle do peso corporal. Contudo, tanto a escola, quanto o professor e sua práxis nas aulas de Educação Física não devem restringir as intervenções de forma circunscrita ao tratamento e controle da obesidade juvenil (AU).

This article presents the results of a quantitative research with a descriptive exploratory bias, whose objective was to analyze the perception of 22 Physical Education teachers (18 men and 04 women), working in higher education, about the role of school and Physical Education in controlling overweight and juveni-le obesity. An adapted version of the Perceptions of Youth Obesity and Physical Education Questionnaire was used. The analysis of the data from the categories called perception of youth obesity, role of the school and role of Physical Education allowed inferring that teachers perceive the school as a potential space for the promotion of actions, such as the offer of curricular disciplines aimed at controlling the body weight. However, both the school and the teacher and their practice in Physical Education classes should not limit interventions to the treatment and control of juvenile obesity (AU).

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cuantitativa con sesgo exploratorio descriptivo, cuyo objetivo fue analizar la percepción de 22 profesores de Educación Física (18 hombres y 04 mujeres), que actúan en la enseñanza superior, sobre el papel de la escuela y la Educación Física en el control so-brepeso y obesidad juvenil. Se utilizó una versión adaptada del Cuestionario de Percepciones de Obesidad Juvenil y Educación Física. El análisis de los datos de las categorías denominadas per-cepción de la obesidad juvenil, rol de la escuela y rol de la Educación Física permitió inferir que los docentes perciben la escuela como un espacio potencial para la promoción de acciones, como la ofer-ta de disciplinas curriculares dirigidas al control el peso corporal. Sin embargo, tanto la escuela como el docente y su práctica en las clases de Educación Física no deben limitar las intervenciones al tratamiento y control de la obesidad juvenil (AU).

O papel da escola e da Educação Física no controle do sobrepeso e obesidade juvenil na perspectiva de professores atuantes no ensino superior / The role of schools and Physical Education in the control of overweight and juvenile obesity from the perspective of teachers working in higher education / El papel de las escuelas y la Educación Física en el control del sobrepeso y la obesidad juvenil desde la perspectiva de docentes que trabajan en la educación superior

O presente artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pes-quisa quantitativa com viés exploratório descritivo, cujo objetivo foi analisar a percepção de 22 professores de Educação Física (18 homens e 04 mulheres), atuantes no magistério superior, sobre o papel da escola e da Educação Física no controle do sobrepeso e obesidade juvenil. Foi utilizada versão adaptada do Perceptions of Youth Obesity and Physical Education Questionnaire. A análise dos dados deu-se a partir das seguintes categorias: percepção da obe-sidade juvenil, papel da escola e papel da Educação Física permi-tiu inferir que os professores percebema escola como um espaço potencial para a promoção de ações, como a oferta de disciplinas curriculares voltadas ao controle do peso corporal. Contudo, tanto a escola, quanto o professor e sua práxis nas aulas de Educação Física não devem restringir as intervenções de forma circunscrita ao tratamento e controle da obesidade juvenil.

This article presents the results of a quantitative re-search with a descriptive exploratory bias, whose objective was to analyze the perception of 22 Physical Education teachers (18 men and 04 women), working in higher education, about the role of school and Physical Education in controlling overweight and juveni-le obesity. An adapted version of the Perceptions of Youth Obesity and Physical Education Questionnaire was used. The analysis of the data from the categories called perception of youth obesity, role of the school and role of Physical Education allowed inferring that teachers perceive the school as a potential space for the pro-motion of actions, such as the offer of curricular disciplines aimed at controlling the body weight. However, both the school and the teacher and their practice in Physical Education classes should not limit interventions to the treatment and control of juvenile obesity.

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investiga-ción cuantitativa con sesgo exploratorio descriptivo, cuyo objetivo fue analizar la percepción de 22 profesores de Educación Física (18 hombres y 04 mujeres), que actúan en la enseñanza superior, sobre el papel de la escuela y la Educación Física en el control so-brepeso y obesidad juvenil. Se utilizó una versión adaptada del Cuestionario de Percepciones de Obesidad Juvenil y Educación Física. El análisis de los datos de las categorías denominadas per-cepción de la obesidad juvenil, rol de la escuela y rol de la Educación Física permitió inferir que los docentes perciben la escuela como un espacio potencial para la promoción de acciones, como la ofer-ta de disciplinas curriculares dirigidas al control el peso corporal. Sin embargo, tanto la escuela como el docente y su práctica en las clases de Educación Física no deben limitar las intervenciones al tratamiento y control de la obesidad juvenil.

Anthraquinones against Cryptococcus neoformans sensu stricto: antifungal interaction, biofilm inhibition and pathogenicity in the Caenorhabditis elegans model.

Introduction. Cryptococcal biofilms have been associated with persistent infections and antifungal resistance. Therefore, strategies, such as the association of natural compounds and antifungal drugs, have been applied for the prevention of biofilm growth. Moreover, the Caenorhabditis elegans pathogenicity model has been used to investigate the capacity to inhibit the pathogenicity of Cryptococcus neoformans sensu stricto.Hypothesis. Anthraquinones and antifungals are associated with preventing C. neoformans sensu stricto biofilm formation and disrupting these communities. Antraquinones reduced the C. neoformans sensu stricto pathogenicity in the C. elegans model.Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro interaction between aloe emodin, barbaloin or chrysophanol and itraconazole or amphotericin B against growing and mature biofilms of C. neoformans sensu stricto.Methodology. Compounds and antifungal drugs were added during biofilm formation or after 72 h of growth. Then, the metabolic activity was evaluated by the MTT reduction assay, the biomass by crystal-violet staining and the biofilm morphology by confocal laser scanning microscopy. C. neoformans sensu stricto's pathogenicity was investigated using the nematode C. elegans. Finally, pathogenicity inhibition by aloe emodin, barbarloin and chrysophanol was investigated using this model.Results. Anthraquinone-antifungal combinations affected the development of biofilms with a reduction of over 60 % in metabolic activity and above 50 % in biomass. Aloe emodin and barbaloin increased the anti-biofilm activity of antifungal drugs. Chrysophanol potentiated the effect of itraconazole against C. neoformans sensu stricto biofilms. The C. elegans mortality rate reached 76.7 % after the worms were exposed to C. neoformans sensu stricto for 96 h. Aloe emodin, barbaloin and chrysophanol reduced the C. elegans pathogenicity with mortality rates of 61.12 %, 65 % and 53.34 %, respectively, after the worms were exposed for 96 h to C. neoformans sensu stricto and these compounds at same time.Conclusion. These results highlight the potential activity of anthraquinones to increase the effectiveness of antifungal drugs against cryptococcal biofilms.

Self-perception of voice, hearing, and general health in screening for voice changes in older women. / Autopercepção da voz, audição e saúde geral no rastreio de distúrbio vocal em idosas.

PURPOSE: To verify the association between sociodemographic factors, vocal behavior, morbidities, and self-perception of voice, hearing, and general health in older women with voice disorders. METHODS: The sample had 95 older women aged 60 to 84 years (mean of 69,5). They were interviewed with a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic aspects, health, and vocal behavior. The Screening Protocol for Voice Disorders in Older Adults (RAVI) was used to identify the presence of voice disorders. RESULTS: Participants who had finished high school and were retired predominated. The number of older women with voice disorders according to RAVI was 46.3%. Physical sensations such as dry throat, throat clearing, and itchy throat were the most common complaints. The group of older women with voice disorders had worse self-perception of voice quality, hearing, and general health and a higher frequency of upper airway infections than those without voice disorders (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION: The vocal self-assessment measured with RAVI was statistically associated with self-perception of voice quality, hearing, general health, sore throat, sinusitis, and respiratory allergies.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação de fatores sociodemográficos, do comportamento vocal, morbidades e autopercepção da voz, auditiva e de saúde geral de idosas com distúrbio vocal. MÉTODO: Participaram 95 idosas com idades entre 60 e 84 anos (média 69,5). Realizou-se uma entrevista com apoio de um questionário estruturado contendo questões sociodemográficas, de saúde e do comportamento vocal. Utilizou-se o Protocolo para Rastreamento de Alterações Vocais em Idosos (RAVI) para identificar a presença de distúrbio vocal. RESULTADOS: Houve o predomínio de participantes com ensino médio completo e aposentadas. O número de idosas que apresentaram distúrbio vocal segundo o RAVI foi de 46,3%. Queixas relacionadas às sensações físicas como garganta seca, pigarro e coceira na garganta foram as mais presentes. O grupo de idosas com distúrbio vocal apresentou pior autopercepção da qualidade vocal, audição, saúde geral e maior frequência de infecções de vias aéreas superiores quando comparadas àquelas sem distúrbio vocal (p≤0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Houve associação estatística entre a autoavaliação vocal mensurada pelo RAVI e a autopercepção da qualidade da voz, da audição, da saúde geral, inflamações de garganta, sinusite e alergias respiratórias.

Effects of redox modulation on quiescin/sulfhydryl oxidase activity of melanoma cells.

Secreted quiescin/sulfhydryl oxidase (QSOX) is overexpressed in many tumor cell lines, including melanoma, and is usually associated with a pro-invasive phenotype. Our previous work described that B16-F10 cells enter in a quiescent state as a protective mechanism against damage generated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) during melanogenesis stimulation. Our present results show that QSOX activity was two-fold higher in cells with stimulated melanogenesis when compared to control cells. Considering that glutathione (GSH) is one of the main factor responsible for controlling redox homeostasis in cells, this work also aimed to investigate the relationship between QSOX activity, GSH levels and melanogenesis stimulation in B16-F10 murine melanoma cell line. The redox homeostasis was impaired by treating cells with GSH in excess or depleting its intracellular levels through BSO treatment. Interestingly, GSH-depleted cells without stimulation of melanogenesis kept high levels of viability, suggesting a possible adaptive mechanism of survival even under low GSH levels. They also showed lower extracellular activity of QSOX, and higher QSOX intracellular immunostaining, suggesting that this enzyme was less excreted from cells and corroborating with a diminished extracellular QSOX activity. On the other hand, cells under melanogenesis stimulation showed a lower GSH/GSSG ratio (8:1) in comparison with control (non-stimulated) cells (20:1), indicating a pro-oxidative state after stimulation. This was accompanied by decreased cell viability after GSH-depletion, no alterations in QSOX extracellular activity, but higher QSOX nucleic immunostaining. We suggest that melanogenesis stimulation and redox impairment caused by GSH-depletion enhanced the oxidative stress in these cells, contributing to additional alterations of its metabolic adaptive response.

Humoral and T Cell Response to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the SARS-CoV-2-specific humoral and T cell response after a two-dose regimen of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: In this observational study, patients with RA who are ≥18 years of age and vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 according to the Argentine National Health Ministry's vaccination strategy were included. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies (ELISA-COVIDAR test), neutralizing activity (cytotoxicity in VERO cells), and specific T cell response (IFN-γ ELISpot Assay) were assessed after the first and second dose. RESULTS: A total of 120 patients with RA were included. Mostly, homologous regimens were used, including Gam-COVID-Vac (27.5%), ChAdOx1 (24.2%), and BBIBP-CorV (22.5%). The most frequent combination was Gam-COVID-Vac/mRNA-1273 (21.7%). After the second dose, 81.7% presented with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, 70.0% presented with neutralizing activity, and 65.3% presented with specific T cell response. The use of BBIBP-CorV and treatment with abatacept (ABA) and rituximab (RTX) were associated with undetectable antibodies and no neutralizing activity after two doses. BBIBP-CorV was also associated with the absence of T cell response. The total incidence of adverse events was 357.1 events per 1,000 doses, significantly lower with BBIBP-CorV (166.7 events per 1,000 doses, P < 0.02). CONCLUSION: In this RA cohort vaccinated with homologous and heterologous regimens against COVID-19, 2 out of 10 patients did not develop anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, 70% presented with neutralizing activity, and 65% presented with specific T cell response. The use of BBIBP-CorV was associated with deficient humoral and cellular response, whereas treatment with ABA and RTX resulted in an impaired anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG formation and neutralizing activity.

Mortalidade materna no Brasil: análise de tendências temporais e agrupamentos espaciais / Maternal mortality in Brazil: an analysis of temporal trends and spatial clustering

Resumo O objetivo do artigo é analisar o padrão espacial e temporal e identificar indicadores socioeconômicos relacionados à razão de mortalidade materna (RMM) no Brasil de 2010 a 2020. Estudo ecológico que analisou a RMM nos municípios do Brasil, utilizando dados secundários. Para análise temporal, utilizou-se o método joinpoint. Para a identificação de aglomerados espaciais, utilizou-se estatística bayesiana, autocorrelação espacial, a técnica Getis Ord Gi* e a varredura scan. Para a identificação dos fatores associados à RMM, foram adotados modelos múltiplos de regressão não espacial e espacial. Observou-se aumento da RMM de 2019 para 2020. Houve crescimento de óbitos nas regiões Norte e Sudeste. Os clusters foram encontrados no Amazonas, Tocantins, Piauí, Maranhão, Bahia e Mato Grosso do Sul. Estão negativamente relacionados à RMM os seguintes indicadores: taxa de parto cesáreo, índice de desenvolvimento humano municipal e renda domiciliar per capita dos vulneráveis à pobreza. Embora a tendência temporal tenha se mostrado constante até 2019, a RMM apresentou crescimento no ano de início da pandemia de COVID-19 no país. A redução da MM no Brasil vai além da promoção de melhorias na assistência gravídico-puerperal, sendo fundamental focar também nos determinantes sociais do problema.

Abstract This article aims to analyze spatial and temporal patterns of maternal mortality in Brazil during the period 2010-2020 and identify related socioeconomic indicators. We conducted an ecological study of the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in Brazil's municipalities using secondary data. Temporal analysis was performed using the joinpoint method. Bayesian statistics, spatial autocorrelation, the Getis Ord Gi* technique and the scan statistic were used to identify spatial clusters, and multiple non-spatial and spatial regression models were used to assess the association between factors and the MMR. There was an increase in the MMR in 2020 and an increase in deaths in the North and Southeast. Clusters were found in Amazonas, Tocantins, Piauí, Maranhão, Bahia and Mato Grosso do Sul. The following indicators were negatively associated with the MMR: cesarean section rate, Municipal Human Development Index, and per capita household income of people who are vulnerable to poverty. The MMR was stable up to 2019, followed by a sharp rise in 2020 coinciding with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in the country. It is essential that efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Brazil extend beyond the promotion of improvements in antenatal, childbirth and postpartum care to address the social determinants of the problem.

Autopercepção da voz, audição e saúde geral no rastreio de distúrbio vocal em idosas / Self-perception of voice, hearing, and general health in screening for voice changes in older women

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar a associação de fatores sociodemográficos, do comportamento vocal, morbidades e autopercepção da voz, auditiva e de saúde geral de idosas com distúrbio vocal. Método Participaram 95 idosas com idades entre 60 e 84 anos (média 69,5). Realizou-se uma entrevista com apoio de um questionário estruturado contendo questões sociodemográficas, de saúde e do comportamento vocal. Utilizou-se o Protocolo para Rastreamento de Alterações Vocais em Idosos (RAVI) para identificar a presença de distúrbio vocal. Resultados Houve o predomínio de participantes com ensino médio completo e aposentadas. O número de idosas que apresentaram distúrbio vocal segundo o RAVI foi de 46,3%. Queixas relacionadas às sensações físicas como garganta seca, pigarro e coceira na garganta foram as mais presentes. O grupo de idosas com distúrbio vocal apresentou pior autopercepção da qualidade vocal, audição, saúde geral e maior frequência de infecções de vias aéreas superiores quando comparadas àquelas sem distúrbio vocal (p≤0,05). Conclusão Houve associação estatística entre a autoavaliação vocal mensurada pelo RAVI e a autopercepção da qualidade da voz, da audição, da saúde geral, inflamações de garganta, sinusite e alergias respiratórias.

ABSTRACT Purpose To verify the association between sociodemographic factors, vocal behavior, morbidities, and self-perception of voice, hearing, and general health in older women with voice disorders. Methods The sample had 95 older women aged 60 to 84 years (mean of 69,5). They were interviewed with a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic aspects, health, and vocal behavior. The Screening Protocol for Voice Disorders in Older Adults (RAVI) was used to identify the presence of voice disorders. Results Participants who had finished high school and were retired predominated. The number of older women with voice disorders according to RAVI was 46.3%. Physical sensations such as dry throat, throat clearing, and itchy throat were the most common complaints. The group of older women with voice disorders had worse self-perception of voice quality, hearing, and general health and a higher frequency of upper airway infections than those without voice disorders (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion The vocal self-assessment measured with RAVI was statistically associated with self-perception of voice quality, hearing, general health, sore throat, sinusitis, and respiratory allergies.

Maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil 2009-2019: spatial distribution, trend and associated factors.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the spatio-temporal pattern of maternal mortality and associated factors in Northeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2019. METHODS: This was an ecological study using the joinpoint method for temporal analysis and spatial autocorrelation and scan tests to identify clusters; regression models using the ordinary least squares and geographically weighted regression methods were used to identify factors associated with mortality, considering p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: Maternal mortality decreased by 1.5% (95%CI; -2.5;-0.5) per year (p-value = 0.009); clusters, of deaths were found, mainly in Piauí and Maranhão, the variables associated with the maternal mortality ratio were Gini Index (ß = 105.72; p-value < 0.001), municipal human development index (ß = 190.91; p-value = 0.001), per capita income (ß = -0.08; p-value = 0.001), Firjan Municipal Development Index-Health (ß = -51.28; p-value < 0.001), life expectancy at birth (ß = -3.50; p-value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There was a reduction in mortality in the period studied, with a concentration of deaths, primarily in Piauí and Maranhão; socioeconomic indicators were associated with higher mortality in the region. MAIN RESULTS: There was a decrease in maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2019. Deaths were mainly concentrated in the states of Piauí and Maranhão. Five socioeconomic indicators were associated with higher mortality in the region. IMPLICATIONS FOR SERVICES: In order to maintain the trend of falling maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil, the need exists to reduce social inequalities and expand access to health services, especially within the scope of Primary Care. PERSPECTIVES: Public policies are needed to expand health services in general as well as comprehensive women's health care in the Brazilian National Health System, especially for women living in contexts of greater social vulnerability.

Travessia na Terceira Margem - Um dispositivo clínico fora do padrão / Travessia on the Third Bank - A non-standard clinical device

Apresentamos o Projeto Travessia, analisando uma situação clínica grupal de elaboração-luto, em que foram utilizados diversos dispositivos estéticos, tendo como centro do trabalho o conto A terceira margem do rio, de Guimarães Rosa. São abordadas as características técnicas e conceituais deste trabalho. Compreendemos que o desenvolvimento de dispositivos sob medida para cada realidade clínica é importante para a prática psicanalítica em situações sociais traumáticas.(AU)

We present the Travessia Project, analyzing a clinical case of grief elaboration in a group intervention, in which several aesthetic devices were used, having as the center the short story A terceira margem do rio, by Guimarães Rosa. The technical and conceptual characteristics of this intervention are addressed. We understand that the development of tailor-made devices for each clinical reality is important for psychoanalytic practice in traumatic social situations.(AU)