Dung removal increases under higher dung beetle functional diversity regardless of grazing intensification.

Dung removal by macrofauna such as dung beetles is an important process for nutrient cycling in pasturelands. Intensification of farming practices generally reduces species and functional diversity of terrestrial invertebrates, which may negatively affect ecosystem services. Here, we investigate the effects of cattle-grazing intensification on dung removal by dung beetles in field experiments replicated in 38 pastures around the world. Within each study site, we measured dung removal in pastures managed with low- and high-intensity regimes to assess between-regime differences in dung beetle diversity and dung removal, whilst also considering climate and regional variations. The impacts of intensification were heterogeneous, either diminishing or increasing dung beetle species richness, functional diversity, and dung removal rates. The effects of beetle diversity on dung removal were more variable across sites than within sites. Dung removal increased with species richness across sites, while functional diversity consistently enhanced dung removal within sites, independently of cattle grazing intensity or climate. Our findings indicate that, despite intensified cattle stocking rates, ecosystem services related to decomposition and nutrient cycling can be maintained when a functionally diverse dung beetle community inhabits the human-modified landscape.

HBV and VZV seroprotection loss in MS patients under DMT.

BACKGROUND: Strategies recommended to decrease the risk of infection associated with the use of multiple sclerosis disease-modifying treatments include screening and immunization against common viral infections such as varicella-zoster (VZV) and hepatitis B (HBV). However, the data concerning the durability of those vaccine responses and the need for re-test is scarce. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate HBV and VZV seroprotection loss in MS patients under DMT. METHODS: We conducted a cohort study including patients with basal seroprotective titers against HBV/VZV viruses and a subsequent serology performed at least 3 months apart. We evaluated predictors of seroprotection loss through a binary regression. RESULTS: HBV seroprotection loss occurred in one-fifth of patients in a median interval of 21.3 months. Anti-CD20 treatment (OR 8.559 95%CI 3.467- 21.130, p < 000.1), age at last serology higher or equal to 55 years (OR 7.506, 95% CI 2.473-22.786, p < 0.001) and basal HBsAb titer (OR 0.992, 95%CI 0.987 -0.996, p=0.001) increase the risk of seroprotection loss. VZV seroprotection loss occurred rarely in a median interval of 21.3 months. We could not identify any factor associated with an increased risk of VZV seroprotection loss. CONCLUSIONS: Anti-CD20 drugs are associated with a loss of seroprotection against HBV in a short-interval follow-up.

Evaluation of the follow-up of children treated for congenital syphilis in a municipality in the state of Espírito Santo, when it lacked crystalline penicillin / valiação do acompanhamento de crianças tratadas para sífilis congênita em município do estado do espírito santo em época de falta de penicilina cristalina

Introduction: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. In Brazil, its incidence has increased, along with the lack of penicillin, the antibiotic of choice for congenital syphilis, from 2014 to 2017. During this period, children were treated with alternative drugs, but to date, data from the scientific literature do not recommend another antibiotic. Objective: To compare the progression, according to the established treatment, and evaluate the follow-up in health care facilities in Vila Velha (Espírito Santo) of children with congenital syphilis aged up to two years, born in Hospital Infantil e Maternidade Alzir Bernardino Alves ­ a reference in neonatology and low-risk pregnancy in the state at the time ­ from 2015 to 2016, when the hospital experienced a greater lack of penicillin. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional observational study based on data from medical records of the hospital and other healthcare facilities in the city. We performed statistical analyses, per health district, of epidemiological and sociodemographic data, as well as those related to visits, their frequency, and clinical profile, according to the follow-up parameters proposed by the Ministry of Health at the time. Results: Medical records of 121 children were evaluated, presenting as the main findings: only 35% of the children completed the follow-up; among those treated with ceftriaxone, 55.2% completed the follow-up, and 100% of the children whose venereal disease research laboratory was greater than that of their mother at birth completed the follow-up. Of the symptomatic children at birth who remained or became symptomatic at follow-up, 58.8% used ceftriaxone. Conclusion: Among symptomatic children at birth, most of those treated with ceftriaxone remained symptomatic at follow-up. The Counseling and Testing Center was the most successful facility in the follow-up of these children. District 5 had the lowest success rate in the follow-up of these patients, and districts 1 and 2 showed the lowest rates of appropriate approach to congenital syphilis during follow-up. (AU)

Introdução: A sífilis é uma infecção sexualmente transmissível causada pela bactéria Treponema pallidum. No Brasil, sua incidência vem aumentando, acompanhada da falta de penicilina, antibiótico de escolha para a sífilis congênita, no período de 2014­2017. Nesse período, as crianças foram tratadas com medicamentos alternativos, porém dados da literatura científica até o momento não recomendam outro antibiótico. Objetivo: Comparar a evolução, de acordo com o tratamento instituído, e avaliar o acompanhamento nas unidades de saúde em Vila Velha (ES), até os dois anos de idade, das crianças com sífilis congênita nascidas no Hospital Infantil e Maternidade Alzir Bernardino Alves ­ referência em neonatologia e gravidez de baixo risco no estado na época ­ de 2015 a 2016, período em que houve maior falta de penicilina no hospital. Métodos: Estudo observacional do tipo transversal, retrospectivo, baseado em dados dos prontuários do hospital e outras Unidades de Saúde do município. Foram analisados estatisticamente, por região de saúde, dados epidemiológicos, sociodemográficos, bem como relativos às consultas, sua periodicidade e ao perfil clínico, de acordo com os parâmetros de seguimento propostos pelo Ministério da Saúde na época. Resultados: Avaliaram-se os prontuários de 121 crianças, obtendo-se como principais achados: somente 35% das crianças tiveram seguimento completo; das crianças tratadas com ceftriaxona, 55,2% tiveram seguimento completo, e 100% das crianças que tiveram VDRL maior que o da mãe no parto completaram o seguimento. Das crianças sintomáticas ao nascimento e que permaneceram ou ficaram sintomáticas no seguimento, 58,8% fizeram uso de ceftriaxona. Conclusão: Das crianças sintomáticas ao nascimento, as tratadas com ceftriaxona, em sua maioria, mantiveram-se sintomáticas no seguimento. O Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento teve maior êxito no acompanhamento dessas crianças. A região 5 teve a menor taxa de êxito no seguimento desses pacientes, e as regiões 1 e 2 menor taxa de abordagem correta para sífilis congênita durante o seguimento. (AU)

Dibenzyl trisulfide induces caspase-independent death and lysosomal membrane permeabilization of triple-negative breast cancer cells.

The Petiveria alliacea L. (P. alliacea) plant is traditionally used in folklore medicine throughout tropical regions of the world to treat arthritis, asthma, and cancer. Dibenzyl trisulfide (DTS) is one of the active ingredients within the P. alliacea plant. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with a poor prognosis, particularly among women of West African ancestry, due in part to limited effective therapy. Though potent anticancer actions of DTS have been reported in a TNBC cell line, the mechanism of DTS-mediated cytotoxicity and cell death remains ill-defined. In the current study, we show that DTS exhibits cytotoxicity in a panel of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells derived from patients of European and West African ancestry. We found that DTS inhibits proliferation and migration of CRL-2335 cells derived from a patient of West African ancestry. DTS induces the expression of pro-apoptotic genes BAK1, GADD45a, and LTA in CRL2335 cells though it primarily promotes caspase-independent CRL-2335 cell death. DTS also promotes destabilization of the lysosomal membrane resulting in cathepsin B release in CRL-2335 cells. Finally, Kaplan-Meier survival curves reveal that higher expression of BAK1 and LTA in tumors from patients with TNBC is associated with longer relapse-free survival. Collectively, our data suggest that DTS confers promising antitumor efficacy in TNBC, in part, via lysosomal-mediated, caspase-independent cell death to warrant furthering its development as an anticancer agent.

What are the meanings of families in a pandemic situation for adolescents? / Quais os significados sobre família em situação de pandemia para os adolescentes?

This paper aimed to identify and understand the meanings of family in a COVID-19 pandemic situation for adolescents in Northeastern Brazil. This qualitative research used the DE-T Procedure with 32 adolescents from Northeastern Brazil. Thirteen themes were observed, and the most incident were physical distance, expressed feelings, integrating family relationships, technological devices, and disintegrating family relationships. We finalize with the representation of family power in facing the pandemic and family suffering in the face of the public health problem that plagues the country.

Este artigo objetivou identificar e compreender os significados da família em situação de pandemia da COVID-19 para jovens do nordeste brasileiro. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, com o uso do Procedimento DE-T. Participaram 32 adolescentes do nordeste brasileiro. Observou-se 13 temas, sendo os mais incidentes: distanciamento físico; sentimentos expressos; relações familiares integradoras; aparelhos tecnológicos; relações familiares desintegradoras. Conclui-se sobre a representação da potência familiar no enfrentamento da pandemia, bem como sobre o sofrimento e padecimento familiar frente ao problema de saúde pública que assola o país.

Quais os significados sobre família em situação de pandemia para os adolescentes? / What are the meanings of families in a pandemic situation for adolescents?

Resumo Este artigo objetivou identificar e compreender os significados da família em situação de pandemia da COVID-19 para jovens do nordeste brasileiro. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, com o uso do Procedimento DE-T. Participaram 32 adolescentes do nordeste brasileiro. Observou-se 13 temas, sendo os mais incidentes: distanciamento físico; sentimentos expressos; relações familiares integradoras; aparelhos tecnológicos; relações familiares desintegradoras. Conclui-se sobre a representação da potência familiar no enfrentamento da pandemia, bem como sobre o sofrimento e padecimento familiar frente ao problema de saúde pública que assola o país.

Abstract This paper aimed to identify and understand the meanings of family in a COVID-19 pandemic situation for adolescents in Northeastern Brazil. This qualitative research used the DE-T Procedure with 32 adolescents from Northeastern Brazil. Thirteen themes were observed, and the most incident were physical distance, expressed feelings, integrating family relationships, technological devices, and disintegrating family relationships. We finalize with the representation of family power in facing the pandemic and family suffering in the face of the public health problem that plagues the country.

Discourse and manipulation: Nursing in question.

The history of Brazilian nurses is marked by several challenges, in part resulting from discontinuous and fragile activity boundaries among the health professions that share the same work objective in care services. A field of constant disputes, the Brazilian health system, was the target of a lawsuit filed by the Federal Council of Medicine that temporarily suspended nurses' activities in primary care. This study aimed to demonstrate the manipulative discourse present in the text of the injunction request by medical doctors against legislation by the Brazilian Federal Government in 2017. This is a qualitative and documental study that used the theoretical-methodological framework of critical discourse studies based on Teun Van Dijk's analytical categories. The results pointed to manipulative discourse through a polarization between manipulators' good qualities and intentions and the bad qualities of nurses and Brazilian primary care policies; episodic manipulation by the presentation of documental and historical evidence of the submission of nursing roles; and social manipulation marked by strong emotional appeal. The study demonstrated that manipulative discourse extrapolated linguistic categories in the form of ideology and history.

In-hospital institutional violence in the childcare practice: discourse analysis from the foucauldian perspective / Violencia institucional hospitalaria en la práctica de la atención de la salud infantil: análisis del discurso desde la perspectiva de foucault / Violência institucional hospitalar na prática de cuidado à criança: análise do discurso na perspectiva foucaultiana

ABSTRACT Objective: to interpret speeches by health professionals and companions about in-hospital institutional violence in childcare practices, based on the Foucauldian concept of discipline. Method: a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research study with a pediatric unit from a university hospital in Salvador/Bahia as study field. The study participants were 10 companions of hospitalized children and 39 health professionals. Data collection took place from November 2018 to October 2019 using semi-structured interviews. Discourse analysis in the light of Foucauldian Thought was employed in data interpretation. Results: institutional violence in the care practices is understood by the disciplinary device, having the following as elements: time control and spatial separation; control over the bodies; norms and training; and thorough examination. With care being guided by such elements, situations of care omission, disrespect for autonomy and privacy, lack of listening, lack of attention, physical harms, deprivations and multiple manipulations of the children's bodies were identified, resulting in violations of these individuals' human dignity. Conclusion: it is necessary for professionals, users, managers and the academic community to propose a change in the modes of care for hospitalized children, strengthening dissemination and debate of human rights in the health services that serve children and their families.

RESUMEN Objetivo: interpretar discursos de profesionales de la salud y de acompañantes acerca de la violencia institucional hospitalaria en las prácticas de atención de la salud infantil, sobre la base de la concepción de disciplina de Foucault. Método: investigación cualitativa, descriptiva y exploratoria en la que el campo de estudio fue una unidad pediátrica de un hospital universitario de Salvador/Bahía. Los participantes del estudio fueron 10 acompañantes de niños internados y 39 profesionales de la salud. La recoléccion de datos ocurrió de noviembre de 2018 a octubre de 2019 mediante la entrevistas semiestructuradas. En la interpretación de los datos se recurrió al análisis del discurso a la luz del pensamiento de Foucault. Resultados: la violencia institucional en las prácticas de atención de la salud se comprende como el dispositivo disciplinario, con los siguientes elementos: control del tiempo y separación espacial; control de los cuerpos; normas y entrenamiento; y examen minucioso. Como la atención de la salud está guiada por dichos elementos, se identificaron situaciones de omisión de atención, falta de respeto por la autonomía y la privacidad, falta de interés por escuchar a los pacientes, falta de atención, perjuicios físicos, privaciones y múltiples manipulaciones del cuerpo infantil, derivando en violaciones a la dignidad humana de estos individuos. Conclusión: es necesario que profesionales, usuarios, gerentes y la comunidad académica propongan un cambio en las modalidades de atención a niños internados, fortaleciendo la difusión y el debate de los derechos humanos en los servicios de salud que atienden a niños y a sus familias.

RESUMO Objetivo: interpretar discursos de profissionais de saúde e de acompanhantes acerca da violência institucional hospitalar nas práticas de cuidado à criança, fundamentado na concepção foucaultiana de disciplina. Método: pesquisa qualitativa descritiva exploratória tendo como campo de estudo uma unidade pediátrica de um hospital universitário em Salvador/Bahia. Participaram do estudo 10 acompanhantes de crianças hospitalizadas e 39 profissionais de saúde. A coleta de dados ocorreu de novembro de 2018 a outubro de 2019 utilizando-se a entrevista semiestruturada. Na interpretação dos dados, foi empregada a análise do discurso à luz do pensamento foucaultiano. Resultados: a violência institucional nas práticas de cuidado é compreendida pelo dispositivo disciplinar, tendo como elementos: controle do tempo e separação espacial; controle dos corpos; normas e adestramento; e o exame minucioso. Estando o cuidado balizado por tais elementos, foram identificadas situações de omissão de cuidados, desrespeito à autonomia, privacidade, falta de escuta, falta de atenção, danos físicos, privações e múltiplas manipulações do corpo infantil, resultando em violações na dignidade humana destes indivíduos. Conclusão: é necessário que profissionais, usuários e gestores e a comunidade acadêmica proponham uma mudança nos modos de atenção à criança hospitalizada, fortalecendo a difusão e debate dos direitos humanos nos serviços de saúde que atendem crianças e suas famílias.

Direitos da criança hospitalizada: percepção da equipe de enfermagem / Rights of hospitalized children: perception of the nursing team

Objetivo: Apreender a percepção da equipe de enfermagem sobre os direitos da criança hospitalizada. Método: Estudo qualitativo exploratório com 13 profissionais de enfermagem em unidade pediátrica de um hospital universitário em Salvador-BA. A coleta de dados ocorreu em novembro de 2018, através de entrevista semi-estruturada. Foi utilizada a análise de conteúdo de Bardin. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: As categorias foram: cumprimento das obrigações legais; garantia do cuidado integral e humanizado; Implementação das ações relacionadas ao tratamento e segurança do paciente; desconhecimento dos direitos da criança hospitalizada. Conclusão: Os profissionais conhecem parcialmente ou desconhecem os direitos infantis, sendo necessário empenho para capacitação dos profissionais e gestores. (AU)

Objective: To apprehend the perception of the nursing team about the rights of hospitalized children. Methods: Qualitative exploratory study with 13 nursing professionals in a pediatric unit of a university hospital in Salvador-BA. Data collection took place in November 2018, through semi-structured interviews. Bardin's content analysis was used. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: The categories were: compliance with legal obligations; guarantee of comprehensive and humanized care; Implementation of actions related to treatment and patient safety; ignorance of the rights of hospitalized children. Conclusion: Professionals partially know or are unaware of children's rights, requiring efforts to train professionals and managers. (AU)

Objetivo: Aprehender la percepción del equipo de enfermería sobre los derechos de los niños hospitalizados. Metodos: Estudio exploratorio cualitativo con 13 profesionales de enfermería en una unidad pediátrica de un hospital universitario en Salvador-BA. La recopilación de datos tuvo lugar en noviembre de 2018, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Se utilizó el análisis de contenido de Bardin. El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación. Resultados: Las categorías fueron: cumplimiento de obligaciones legales; garantía de atención integral y humanizada; Implementación de acciones relacionadas con el tratamiento y la seguridad del paciente; ignorancia de los derechos de los niños hospitalizados. Conclusión: los profesionales conocen parcialmente o desconocen los derechos del niño, lo que requiere esfuerzos para capacitar a profesionales y gerentes. (AU)

Development of rivaroxaban microemulsion-based hydrogel for transdermal treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism.

We have developed a microemulsion (ME)-based hydrogel, containing propylene glycol, Azone®, Labrasol®, isobutanol and water (20:3:18:3:56), for the transdermal delivery of rivaroxaban (RVX). Formulation ME-1:RVX, which was loaded with 0.3 mg/g of RVX, presented as a clear, homogenous fluid with a droplet size of 82.01 ± 6.32 nm and a PdI of 0.207 ± 0.01. To provide gelation properties, 20 % (w/w) of Pluronic® F-127 was added to ME-1:RVX to generate formulation PME-1a. An added benefit was an increased capacity for RVX to 0.4 mg/g (formulation PME-1b). PME-1b displayed spherical droplets with a nanoscale diameter as observed by Transmission Electron Microscopy. The release of RVX from PME-1b was 20.71 ± 0.76 µg/cm2 with a permeation through pig epidermis of 18.32 ± 8.87 µg/cm2 as measured in a Franz Cell for 24 h. PME-1b presented a pseudoplastic behavior, pH value compatible with the skin and good stability over 60 days at room and elevated temperatures. The prothrombin time was assessed for each concentration of RVX obtained in the permeation assay and each demonstrated a relevant anticoagulant activity. PME-1b also presented no cytotoxicity against HaCaT cells. Utilizing GastroPlus® software, an in silico analysis was performed to simulate the delivery of PME-1b through a transdermal system that suggested a minimum dose of RVX for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism could be achieved with an 8 h administration regimen. These results suggest that PME-1b is a promising transdermal formulation for the effective delivery of RVX that could be a viable alternative for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism.

Seroconversion rate following HBV vaccination in clinical practice: The role of age and DMT treatment.

HBV screening and immunization is recommended in all MS patients and is mandatory before the start of some DMT. However, studies evaluating the immune response to HBV vaccine in MS patients are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the seroprotection rate following HBV immunization in MS patients and to assess if older age and DMT-treatment influenced seroprotection. We conducted a cohort study between 2016 and 2020 and compared the immune response to HBV vaccine in MS patients under different DMTs and in patients 50 years old or younger and older than 50. We found that patients under non-injectable DMT presented lower rates of seroprotection comparing to patients under injectable DMT's or without treatment. In patients older than 50, although the seroprotection rate was similar to the remaining patients, the antibody anti-HBV surface antigen titers following HBV immunization were lower and patients were more likely to require a 4th dose of the vaccine to achieve seroprotection. Our findings highlight to need to consider HBV immunization in MS patients early in the disease course, in order to ensure a proper immune response to the vaccine.

Novel rivaroxaban-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/poloxamer nanoparticles: preparation, physicochemical characterization, in vitro evaluation of time-dependent anticoagulant activity and toxicological profile.

Rivaroxaban (RXB), an oral direct factor Xa inhibitor, presents innovative therapeutic profile. However, RXB has shown adverse effects, mainly due to pharmacokinetic limitations, highlighting the importance of developing more effective formulations. Therefore, this work aims at the preparation, physicochemical characterization and in vitro evaluation of time-dependent anticoagulant activity and toxicology profile of RXB-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/poloxamer nanoparticles (RXBNps). RXBNp were produced by nanoprecipitation method and physicochemical characteristics were evaluated. In vitro analysis of time-dependent anticoagulant activity was performed by prothrombin time test and toxicological profile was assessed by hemolysis and MTT reduction assays. The developed RXBNp present spherical morphology with average diameter of 205.5 ± 16.95 nm (PdI 0.096 ± 0.04), negative zeta potential (-26.28 ± 0.77 mV), entrapment efficiency of 91.35 ± 2.40%, yield of 41.81 ± 1.68% and 3.72 ± 0.07% of drug loading. Drug release was characterized by an initial fast release followed by a sustained release with 28.34 ± 2.82% of RXB available in 72 h. RXBNp showed an expressive time-dependent anticoagulant activity in human and rat blood plasma and non-toxic profile. Based on the results presented, it is possible to consider that RXBNp may be able to assist in the development of promising new therapies for treatment of thrombotic disorders.

An attempt to chemically state the cross-talk between monomers of COX homodimers by double/hybrid inhibitors mofezolac-spacer-mofezolac and mofezolac-spacer-arachidonic acid.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) account for over 17 million death globally each year, including arterial thrombosis. Platelets are key components in the pathogenesis of this disease and modulating their activity is an effective strategy to treat such thrombotic events. Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) isoenzyme is involved in platelet activation and is the main target of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and new selective inhibitor research. Inhibitors of general formula mofezolac-spacer-mofezolac (mof-spacer-mof) and mofezolac-spacer-arachidonic acid (mof-spacer-AA) were projected to investigate the possible cross-talk between the two monomers (Eallo and Ecat) forming the COX-1 homodimer. Mofezolac was chosen as either one or two moieties of these molecules being the known most potent and selective COX-1 inhibitor and administrated to humans as Disopain™, then arachidonic acid (AA) was used to develop molecules bearing, in the same compound, in addition to the inhibitor moiety (mofezolac) also the natural COX substrate. Depending on the nature of the spacer, COX-1 and COX-2 activity was differently inhibited by mof-spacer-mof set with a preferential COX-1 inhibition. The highest COX-1 selectivity was exhibited by the compound in which the spacer was the benzidine [N,N'-(biphenyl-4,4'-di-yl)bis (2-[3,4-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)isoxazol-5-yl]acetamide) (15): COX-1 IC50 = 0.08 µM, COX-2 IC50 > 50 µM, Selectivity Index (SI) > 625]. In the case of mof-spacer-AA set, the COX inhibitory potency and also the isoform preference changed. (5Z, 8Z, 11Z, 14Z)-N-(4-{2-[3,4-Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)isoxazol-5-yl]acetamido}butyl)icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenamide (19) and (5Z, 8Z, 11Z, 14Z)-N-(4'-{2-[3,4-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)isoxazol-5-yl]acetamido}-[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenamide (21), in which the spacer is the 1,2-diaminobutane or benzidine, respectively, selectively inhibited the COX-2, whereas when the spacer is the 1,4-phenylendiamine [(5Z, 8Z, 11Z, 14Z)-N-(4-{2-[3,4-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)isoxazol-5-yl]acetamido}phenyl)icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenamide) (20) the COX preference is COX-1 (COX-1 IC50 = 0.05 µM, COX-2 IC50 > 50 µM, with a COX-1 selectivity > 1000). Molecular modelling by using FLAP algorithm shows fundamental interactions of the novel compounds at the entry channel of COX and inside its catalytic cavity. The effect of these mof-spacer-mof and mof-spacer-AA in inhibiting in vitro free arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation was also determined. A positive profile of hemocompatibility in relation to their influence on the blood coagulation cascade and erythrocyte toxicity was observed. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity safety were also found for these two novel sets of compounds.

[Impact of the kangaroo method of breastfeeding of preterm newborn infants in Brazil: an integrative review]. / Impacto do método canguru sobre o aleitamento materno de recém-nascidos pré-termo no Brasil: uma revisão integrativa.

The scope of this integrative review of the literature was to assess if the Kangaroo-Mother Care Method as implemented in Brazil, from the first stage to outpatient follow-up, has an influence on breastfeeding. Brazilian research published in national and international journals in Portuguese, English or Spanish in the leading research databases between the years 2000 to 2017 was included, with full articles available and theme related to the scope of this study. A total of 1328 articles were located and articles not conducted in Brazil, literature review articles and themes not related to the Kangaroo-Mother Care Method were excluded, with 21 studies eventually being selected. The research results indicated a positive influence of the Kangaroo-Mother Care Method on breastfeeding and establishing a mother-child bond. However, the third stage or outpatient follow-up proved not to be effective in maintaining breastfeeding. Greater participation of primary care in home care provided to preterm newborns is necessary, with a view to promoting exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age and extended up to two years of age.

Esta revisão integrativa da literatura teve como objetivo verificar se o Método Canguru, conforme instituído no Brasil, desde a primeira etapa até o acompanhamento ambulatorial, tem influência sobre o aleitamento materno. Foram incluídas pesquisas realizadas no Brasil, publicadas em periódicos nacionais e internacionais, nas principais bases de dados, em português, inglês ou espanhol, nos anos de 2000 a 2017, disponíveis na íntegra e com a temática relacionada com o objetivo deste estudo. Foram encontrados 1328 artigos sendo excluídos artigos não realizados no Brasil, artigos de revisão da literatura e de temáticas não relacionadas com o Método Canguru, sendo então selecionados 21 estudos. As pesquisas encontradas apontaram para uma influência positiva do Método Canguru sobre o aleitamento materno e estabelecimento de vínculo entre mãe-filho. No entanto, a terceira etapa ou acompanhamento ambulatorial, não se mostrou eficaz na manutenção do aleitamento materno. Faz-se necessário maior participação da atenção básica nos cuidados domiciliares prestados ao recém-nascido pré-termo, com vistas à promoção do aleitamento materno exclusivo até os seis meses de idade e complementado até os dois anos.

Persistence of Parvovirus B19 in liver from transplanted patients with acute liver failure.

Aim: In this study, we investigated the presence of B19V in liver tissues from patients with acute liver failure (ALF) and evaluated the viral activity in infected liver. Methods: Serum and liver samples from 30 patients who underwent liver transplantation for ALF were investigated for B19V infection by real-time PCR, serological tests and examination of B19V mRNA (transcript) expression in the liver. Results: The serum and liver samples from seven patients were B19V DNA positive (103-105 copies/ml). Most of them presented detectable anti-B19V IgG, indicating persistent infection. B19V mRNA was detected in all patients, demonstrating intra-hepatic replication. Conclusion: B19V infection of the liver during the course of non-A-E ALF suggested a role of B19V, which produced the worst outcome in co-infected patients and in patients with cryptogenic ALF, in liver damage.

B220 expression as an immunological marker for differentiation of Feline Leukemia Virus carrying cats / A expressão de B220 como um marcador imunológico para diferenciação de gatos portadores do vírus da Leucemia Felina

ABSTRACT: Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes an infection in cats that, in some cases, can also be reported with other pathologies, such as infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and lymphoma. Although, a compromised immune response is reported in these animals, little is known about the immunological state of their cells. To shed some light in this area, we studied peripheral blood samples from both infected and non-infected cats with FeLV, with or without FIV, FIP, and lymphoma. We tested a panel of monoclonal antibodies (n=11) against mouse and human antigens and we reported that cat leukocytes can be stained with anti-mouse B220 monoclonal antibody; therefore, percentages of B cells were evaluated in different cat groups. Our results showed that cats with FeLV and FIP, or with leukemia, presented a large decrease in B220+ mononuclear cells. However, FeLV+ cats without clinical signs, or with unspecific clinical signs, had the same amount of B220+ mononuclear cells as healthy cats (control cats). Since the expression of B220 is exclusively restricted to the naïve B cell population, we inferred that the absence of these B cells in FeLV+ cats is related to other conditions that affect B cell numbers, such as viral infections and leukemias. Therefore, the amount of naïve B cells in peripheral blood (i.e., B220+ cells) can be used to identify FeLV+ cats concomitantly carrying FIP or leukemia, from FeLV+ cats with lymphoma or without any clinical signs.

RESUMO: O vírus da leucemia felina (FeLV) causa de uma infecção em gatos, que também podem ter outras patologias, como a imunodeficiência felina (FIV), a peritonite infecciosa felina (FIP) e linfoma. Embora uma resposta imune comprometida seja encontrada nestes animais, pouco se sabe sobre o estado imunológico de suas células. Para ampliar o número de testes com a finalidade de avaliar o estado imunológico destes animais, estudamos amostras de sangue periférico de gatos infectados, ou não, com FeLV, e que apresentavam (concomitantemente) FIV, FIP e linfoma. Para isto, amostras de sangue foram marcadas com um painel de anticorpos monoclonais contra antígenos de camundongos e humanos (n = 11), para avaliar seu potencial para estudos imunológicos em gatos. De todo o painel de anticorpos testados, apenas o anticorpo anti-B220 de camundongo foi capaz de marcar leucócitos de gato. Nossos resultados mostraram que os gatos com FeLV e FIP, ou com leucemia, apresentaram uma grande diminuição nas células mononucleares B220+. No entanto, gatos FeLV+ sem sinais clínicos, ou com sinais clínicos inespecíficos, tiveram a mesma quantidade de células B220+ que os gatos saudáveis (gatos controle). Como a expressão de B220 é restrita à população de células B naïve, podemos inferir que a ausência dessas células B em gatos FeLV+ está relacionada a outras condições que afetam o número destas células, como infecções virais e leucemias. Portanto, a quantidade de células B naïve no sangue periférico pode ser usada para identificar gatos FeLV+ concomitantemente portadores de PIF ou leucemia, de gatos FeLV+ com linfoma ou sem sinais clínicos.

Oral pentamidine-loaded poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles: an alternative approach for leishmaniasis treatment.

Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by a protozoa parasite from one of over 20 Leishmania species. Depending on the tissues infected, these diseases are classified as cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis. For the treatment of leishmaniasis refractory to antimony-based drugs, pentamidine (PTM) is a molecule of great interest. However, PTM displays poor bioavailability through oral routes due to its two strongly basic amidine moieties, which restricts its administration by a parenteral route and limits its clinical use. Among various approaches, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems (nano-DDS) have potential to overcome the challenges associated with PTM oral administration. Here, we present the development of PTM-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) with a focus on the characterization of their physicochemical properties and potential application as an oral treatment of leishmaniasis. NPs were prepared by a double emulsion methodology. The physicochemical properties were characterized through the mean particle size, polydispersity index (PdI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, yield process, drug loading, morphology, in vitro drug release and in vivo pharmacological activity. The PTM-loaded PLGA NPs presented with a size of 263 ± 5 nm (PdI = 0.17 ± 0.02), an almost neutral charge (-3.2 ± 0.8 mV) and an efficiency for PTM entrapment of 91.5%. The release profile, based on PTM dissolution, could be best described by a zero-order model, followed by a drug diffusion profile that fit to the Higuchi model. In addition, in vivo assay showed the efficacy of orally given PTM-loaded PLGA NPs (0.4 mg kg-1) in infected BALB/c mice, with significant reduction of organ weight and parasite load in spleen (p-value < 0.05). This work successfully reported the oral use of PTM-loaded NPs, with a high potential for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, opening a new perspective to utilization of this drug in clinical practice.

Vitiligo as a psychosocial disease: apprehensions of patients imprinted by the white / O vitiligo como uma doença psicossocial: apreensões de pacientes marcados pelo branco / El vitíligo como una enfermedad psicosocial: comprensión de pacientes marcados por lo blanco

This study aimed to show the comprehension that patients bearing vitiligo have over their condition, also assessing the association with their health and disease concepts. It is a qualitative research with descriptive and exploratory purposes, carried out from an epidemiological survey throughout the years of 2010-2013, with records from a dermatology outpatient care sector of a seminal hospital located in the city of Campina Grande - Paraíba, Brazil. It was identified that from the 832 existing records, 13 were of vitiligo patients and, from them, eight agreed to be part of this study, answering a semi-structured questionnaire. Data examination was made using the Thematic Content Analysis technique, identifying four categories. Results indicated that the process of being stricken with the disease is directly related to social practices that target the "stained" subject, over whom vitiligo has imprinted its patches.(AU)

O presente estudo teve por objetivo apresentar a compreensão de sujeitos portadores de vitiligo sobre sua afecção, avaliando também a associação com a concepção de saúde-doença. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa de caráter descritivo e exploratório, realizada a partir de um levantamento epidemiológico do período de 2010-2013, em prontuários do ambulatório de dermatologia de um hospital de referência localizado na cidade de Campina Grande - Paraíba, Brasil. Identificou-se que de 832 prontuários existentes, 13 pacientes possuíam vitiligo e, destes, apenas oito aceitaram participar do estudo, respondendo a um questionário semiestruturado. O tratamento dos dados ocorreu por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo temática, identificando quatro categorias. Os resultados indicaram que o processo de adoecimento está diretamente ligado às práticas sociais que são direcionadas ao sujeito "manchado", sobre o qual o vitiligo imprimiu suas marcas.(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar la comprensión de sujetos portadores de vitíligo sobre su afección, evaluando también la asociación con el concepto de salud-enfermedad. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa de carácter descriptivo y exploratorio, realizada a partir de un levantamiento epidemiológico del período de 2010-2013, en fichas del ambulatorio de dermatología de un hospital de referencia localizado en la ciudad de Campina Grande - estado de Paraíba, Brasil. Se identificó que, de las 832 fichas existentes, 13 pacientes sufrían de vitíligo y de ellos solamente ocho aceptaron participar en el estudio, respondiendo un cuestionario semi-estructurado. El tratamiento de los datos se realizó por medio de la técnica de análisis de contenido temático, identificando cuatro categorías. Los resultados indicaron que el proceso de enfermedad está directamente vinculado a las prácticas sociales que se dirigen al sujeto "manchado", sobre el cual el vitíligo imprimió sus marcas.(AU)

Avaliação da dor frente à técnica de eletroacupuntura em crianças com disfunções miccionais / Pain evaluation in relation to the electroacupuncture in children with voiding dysfunctions

Introdução: as disfunções miccionais possuem alta incidência entre as crianças, com potencial de afetar a qualidade devida destes indivíduos. É necessária a avaliação das terapêuticas utilizadas para tratar este problema quanto a sua capacidade de gerar dor. Objetivo: Avaliar a existência de dor nas crianças com distúrbios miccionais submetidas à técnica de eletroacupuntura.Método: Estudo avaliativo de abordagem quantitativa realizado em abril e maio de 2011 com 24 crianças em tratamento com eletroacupuntura em um Centro de Distúrbios Miccionais na Infância da cidade de Salvador-BA. Resultados: Em todas as sessões foi constatada presença de dor, contudo esta foi predominantemente caracterizada como leve e sua prevalência foi maior na primeira sessão e no momento inicial desta. Conclusão: O procedimento tem potencial de gerar dor em crianças e é necessária a adoção de medidas que atenuem este sintoma, de forma a melhorar a assistência e promover maior aceitação do tratamento.

Introduction: the miccional dysfunctions have high incidence among children, with potential of affecting thequality of life of these patients. It’s necessary the evaluation of therapeutic used to treat this problem regarding the ability toproduce pain. Objective: To evaluate the existence of pain in children with miccional dysfunctions submitted to the technique of electoacupuncture. Method: Evaluative study with quantitative approach carried on in April and May 2011 with 24 children intreatment with electoacupuncture in a Center of Miccional Disorders in Childhood in the city of Salvador-BA. Results: In all sessionspresence of pain was observed, however it was predominantly characterized as mild pain and its prevalence was higher in the firstsession and in the beginning of this. Conclusion: The procedure has the potential to generate pain in children and it’s necessary to adopt measures that decrease the pain, improving care and the acceptance of the treatment.

Objetivo: identificar los factores que ocasionan la caída en los ancianos, considerando consecuencias, y describiendocambios ocurridos en la vida diaria de los ancianos que son asistidos por la Estrategia Salud de la Familia. Método: se trata de unainvestigación descriptiva exploratoria, con abordaje cuantitativo con corte transversal. Se realizó con ancianos con 60 o más de edad.Ancianos atendidos en la Estrategia Salud de la Familia, en el período de octubre / 2017. En la mayoría de los casos, se observó queel 43,59% (n=17) tenía una edad comprendida entre 60 a 69 años incompletos, cuando se observó la variable acceso a la Unidadde Salud se observó que el 64,10% (n=25) se refiere a tener buen acceso, cuando se verifica la variable ya cayó se observó que el84,62% (n=33) respondieron sí. Conclusión: La caída es un evento de causa multifactorial, con factores extrínsecos e intrínsecosrelacionados de alta complejidad terapéutica y de difícil prevención, exigiendo de esa forma un abordaje multidisciplinario y unaasistencia continúa la salud de anciano por medio de estrategia.

O manejo da dor em crianças percebido pela equipe de enfermagem / Pain management in children as perceived by the nursing team / El manejo del dolor en niños, percibido por el equipo de enfermería

Objetivo: descrever o manejo da dor em crianças pela equipe de enfermagem. Metodologia: estudo qualitativo, realizado em unidade pediátrica de hospital universitário na cidade de Salvador, Bahia, em 2012. Participaram do estudo três enfermeiras, duas técnicas e duas auxiliares de enfermagem. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, analisadas por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo, emergindo três categorias: Identificação da dor na criança internada; Instrumentos de avaliação da dor; Prevenção e Tratamento da dor, após aprovação do estudo pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da instituição, sob o parecer de número 79/11. Resultados: foram evidenciadas intervenções prioritariamente farmacológicas em detrimento das não-farmacológicas, intervenções insuficientes e pouco resolutivas, não utilização dos instrumentos adequados, além da não participação dos pais nesse cenário. Conclusão: percebe-se a necessidade de aprofundamento científico entre a equipe para o manejo da dor, além da reprodução do modelo biomédico no que concerne ao tratamento medicamentoso.

Objective: to describe pain management in children by the nursing team. Methodology: this qualitative study in a pediatric unit of a university hospital in Salvador, Bahia, was conducted in 2012, after approval by the research ethics committee (Opinion No. 79/11). Three nurses, two technicians and two nursing auxiliaries participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews were carried out and analyzed using content analysis, from which three categories emerged: identifying pain in the hospitalized child; pain assessment instruments; preventing and treating pain. Results: findings included pharmacological interventions prioritized over non-pharmacological interventions; insufficient and ineffective interventions; failure to use appropriate instruments; and parental non-participation in this scenario. Conclusion: the team needed more in-depth scientific training in pain management, beyond reproduction of the biomedical drug treatment model.

Objetivo: describir cómo el equipo de enfermería maneja el dolor en niños. Metodología: estudio cualitativo, realizado en unidad pediátrica de hospital universitario en la ciudad de Salvador, Bahía, en 2012. Participaron del estudio tres enfermeras, dos técnicas y dos auxiliares de la enfermería. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas, analizadas por medio de la técnica de análisis de contenido. Surgieron tres categorías: identificación del dolor en el niño internado; instrumentos de evaluación del dolor; prevención y tratamiento del dolor, tras la aprobación del estudio por el Comité de Ética en Investigación de la institución, bajo el parecer de número 79/11. Resultados: se evidenciaron intervenciones prioritariamente farmacológicas en detrimento de las no farmacológicas, intervenciones insuficientes y poco resolutivas, no utilización de los instrumentos adecuados, además de la no participación de los padres en ese escenario. Conclusión: se percibe la necesidad de profundización científica entre el equipo para el manejo del dolor, además de la reproducción del modelo biomédico en lo respecta al tratamiento medicamentoso.