Analysis of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care facilities in the pre-vaccination period.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected individuals residing in Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs), necessitating tailored strategies to manage outbreaks. This study examines the outcomes of the ILPI BH project, a collaborative effort between the Municipal Health Department and the Hospital das Clínicas of the Federal University of Minas Gerais, designed to mitigate COVID-19 spread within LTCFs. METHODS: Prospective cohort of secondary data: 1,794 old residents in 99 long-term care facilities of Belo Horizonte, Brazil, were followed from May 2020 to January 2021. The study analyzed the prevention strategies, residents' clinical data, and the characteristics of the long-term care facilities, correlating these variables with the number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths from COVID-19. It checked absolute numbers and rates of incidence, hospitalization, mortality, and lethality. RESULTS: There have been 58 COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities. There were 399 cases among residents, 96 hospitalizations for COVID-19 and 48 deaths from COVID-19 (2.7 % of the cohort), with a case fatality rate of 12 %. After multivariate analysis, the intrinsic variables to residents associated with higher mortality risk were higher degree of frailty (OR=1.08; p = 0.004) and the fact of living in a long-term care facility with a considerable proportion of residents' coverage by health plans (OR = 1.01; p = 0.028). Early geriatric follow-up showed an association with a reduction in the number of hospitalizations due to COVID-19. CONCLUSION: The correct classification of the degree of frailty of institutionalized older people seems to have been relevant for predicting mortality from COVID-19. The extensive assistance by private health plans, contrary to what is supposed, did not result in better health protection. Early geriatric follow-up was beneficial and may be an attractive strategy in the face of health emergencies that affect long-term care facilities to reduce hospital admissions.

Skeletal muscle mass increases after viral eradication with direct-acting antivirals in patients with chronic hepatitis C: A longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Results of studies evaluating the effect of viral eradication following direct-acting antiviral (DDA) therapy on skeletal muscle mass of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) are scarce. AIM: To assess the components of sarcopenia (low muscle mass, low muscle strength and low physical performance) in a cohort of CHC individuals before and after DAA therapy. METHODS: We performed a longitudinal study of patients with CHC who underwent body composition assessment before (T0), and at 12 (T1) and 48 (T2) weeks after DDA therapy. Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis was used to assess skeletal mass muscle (SM) and phase angle (PhA). SM index (SMI) was calculated by dividing the SM by squared height. Muscle function was evaluated by hand grip strength (HGS) and timed up-and-go (TUG) test. Mixed-effects linear regression models were fitted to SMI, HGS and physical performance and were used to test the effect of HCV eradication by DAA. RESULTS: 62 outpatients (mean age, 58.6 ± 10.8 years; 58% with compensated cirrhosis) were included. Significant decreases in liver fibrosis markers and an increase of 0.20 and 0.22 kg/m2 in the SMI were observed at T1 and T2. Following DAA therapy, an increase of one unit of PhA was associated with a reduction of 0.38 min in TUG. CONCLUSION: HCV eradication with DAA therapy was associated with a dynamic reduction of non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis and increased muscle mass in 62 patients with CHC who had an undetectable HCV load at 12 weeks after completion of antiviral treatment.

Teste de força máxima de preensão palmar em pessoas idosas longevas do sudeste brasileiro: definição de pontos de corte / Maximum handgrip strength test in long-lived elderly people from southeastern Brazil: definition of cutoff points

Resumo Objetivo Definir pontos de corte para os valores do teste de força máxima de preensão palmar (FMPP) em pessoas idosas longevas. Método Estudo transversal com amostra de pessoas idosas longevas, octogenárias e nonagenárias, saudáveis e independentes funcionais (grupo robusto) e frágeis (grupo frágil). O teste de FMPP foi realizado em triplicata, sendo considerado o maior valor obtido. Os valores de sensibilidade, especificidade e os pontos de corte foram calculados por meio da Curva Característica de Operação do Receptor (ROC). Foram utilizados os pontos de corte brasileiros e os do Consenso Europeu de Sarcopenia para estudo da comparação. Resultados Foram avaliadas 121 pessoas idosas, com idade média de 84,5±5,3 anos, 65 (53,7%) do sexo feminino, sendo 46 (38%) do grupo frágil e 75 (62%) do grupo robusto. Foram encontrados os pontos de corte para FMPP de 27 kgf para homens e 19 kgf para mulheres. Os valores de sensibilidade e especificidade para os pontos de corte masculinos foram 94,44 e 65,79, respectivamente. Para o sexo feminino foram de 85,71 e 67,57. A partir desses pontos de corte, 23 (38,3%) pessoas idosas do grupo robusto foram classificadas com força inadequada, e, portanto, com provável sarcopenia, ao passo que, de acordo com os pontos de corte brasileiros e europeus, o número é de 35 (44,3%) e 14 (33,3%), respectivamente. Conclusão O estudo definiu pontos de corte para a população longeva e mostrou que os pontos de corte definidos até o momento para a população idosa brasileira não se mostraram adequados para longevos.

Abstract Objective To define cut-off points for the values ​​of the Maximum Handgrip Strength (MGS) test in long-lived elderly people. Method Cross-sectional study with a sample of long-lived elderly people, octogenarians and nonagenarians, healthy and functionally independent (robust group) and frail (fragile group). The MHS test was performed in triplicate, with the highest value obtained being considered. Sensitivity, specificity and cut-off values ​​were calculated using the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC). The Brazilian cut-off points and those of the European Consensus on Sarcopenia were used for the comparison study. Results 121 elderly people were evaluated, with a mean age of 84.5±5.3 years, 65 (53.7%) female, 46 (38%) from the frail group and 75 (62%) from the robust group. Cut-off points for MHS of 27 kgf for men and 19 kgf for women were found. Sensitivity and specificity values ​​for men's cutoffs were 94.44 and 65.79, respectively. For woman, they were 85.71 and 67.57. Based on these cutoff points, 23 (38.3%) individuals from the robust group were classified as having competitive strength, and therefore with probable sarcopenia, while according to the Brazilian and European cutoff points, the number is 35 (44.3%) and 14 (33.3%). Conclusion The study defined cut-off points for the oldest-old population and showed that the cut-off points defined so far for the Brazilian elderly population were not adequate for the oldest-old.

Incidência de fragilidade e fatores associados à piora funcional na pessoa idosa longeva durante pandemia da covid-19: Estudo de Coorte / Incidence of frailty and factors associated with functional deterioration in oldest old during the covid-19 pandemic: A cohort study

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a incidência de fragilidade na pessoa idosa longeva, durante a pandemia da covid-19 e identificar as associações entre os domínios do Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional (IVCF -20) e a fragilização. Métodos Estudo de coorte com 64 pessoas idosas longevas previamente não frágeis, avaliados em dois momentos: na linha de base, até um ano antes do início da pandemia e no seguimento, com uma média de intervalo entre os dois momentos de 15 meses. A fragilidade foi avaliada por meio do VS - Frailty (linha de base) e aplicação remota do IVCF-20 (seguimento). Resultados A idade média foi de 88,7±5 anos e a incidência de fragilidade de 20,6%. As pessoas idosas que fragilizaram apresentaram maior dependência em: deixar de fazer compras (p<0,001), deixar de controlar o próprio dinheiro (p<0,001) e deixar de fazer trabalhos domésticos (p=0,010), assim como em: deixar de tomar banho sozinho (p=0,041). A piora da cognição foi mais presente nos idosos que fragilizaram. A presença de desânimo, tristeza ou desesperança foi elevada (92,3%) e teve associação com a fragilização (p<0,001). Na análise multivariada, a fragilização esteve associada com piora do esquecimento (RR=2,39; IC95% 1,27-4,46), perda de interesse e prazer na realização de atividades (RR=4,94; IC95% 1,98-12,35) e incontinência esfincteriana (RR=2,40; IC95% 2.91-1,53). Conclusões A incidência de fragilização entre as pessoas idosas longevas durante a pandemia foi alta. Identificou-se que mais de um domínio foi afetado o que reforça a necessidade de avaliação da pessoa idosa em sua integralidade, sobretudo em períodos atípicos como o vivenciado.

Abstract Objective To assess the incidence of frailty in oldest old during the covid-19 pandemic and to evaluate the associations between the domains of the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (IVCF -20) and frailty. Methods A cohort study of 64 non-frail oldest old was conducted. Participants were evaluated at two timepoints: at baseline up to one year before the onset of the pandemic; and at follow-up, with an average interval between the two timepoints of 15 months. Frailty was assessed using the VS - Frailty (baseline) and remote application of the IVCF-20 (follow-up). Results Mean participant age was 88.7±5 years and the incidence of frailty was 20.6%. Frail participants exhibited greater dependence shopping (p<0.001), controlling their own money (p<0.001) and doing housework (p=0.010), as well as bathing alone (p=0.041). Cognitive decline was more prevalent in the frail individuals. The presence of despondency sadness or hopelessness proved high (92.3%) and was associated with frailty (p<0.001). On the multivariate analysis, frailty was associated with worsening forgetfulness (RR=2.39; 95%CI 1.27-4.46), loss of interest and pleasure in performing activities (RR=4.94; 95%CI 1.98-12.35) and fecal/urinary incontinence (RR=2.40; 95%CI 2.91-1.53). Conclusions

Neurochemical abnormalities in the hippocampus of male rats displaying audiogenic seizures, a genetic model of epilepsy.

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy is a disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that affects 1% of the population. However, the neurochemical alterations observed in epilepsy are not fully understood. There are different animal models of epilepsy, such as genetic or drug induced. In the present study, we utilize Wistar Audiogenic Rats (WAR), a murine strain that develops seizures in response to high intensity audio stimulation, in order to investigate abnormalities in glutamatergic and GABAergic systems. METHODS: Synaptosomes and glial plasmalemmal vesicles were prepared from hippocampus and cortex, respectively. Glutamate and GABA release and uptake were assayed by monitoring the fluorescence and using L-[3H]-radiolabeled compounds. Glutamate and calcium concentration in the synaptosomes were also measured. The expression of neuronal calcium sensor 1 (NCS-1) was determined by western blot. RESULTS: Glutamate and GABA release evoked by KCl was decreased in WAR compared to control Wistar rats. Calcium independent release was not considerably different in both groups. The total amount of glutamate of synaptosomes, as well as glutamate uptake by synaptosomes and GPV were also decreased in WAR in comparison with the controls. In addition, [Ca2+]i of hippocampal synaptosomes, as well as NCS-1 expression in the hippocampus, were increased in WAR in comparison with controls. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our results suggest that WAR have important alterations in the glutamatergic and GABAergic pathways, as well as an increased expression of NCS-1 in the hippocampus and inferior colliculus. These alterations may be linked to the spreading of hyperexcitability and recruitment of various brain regions.

Inflammaging in Endemic Areas for Infectious Diseases.

Immunosenescence is marked by a systemic process named inflammaging along with a series of defects in the immunological activity that results in poor responses to infectious agents and to vaccination. Inflammaging, a state of low-grade chronic inflammation, usually leads to chronic inflammatory diseases and frailty in the elderly. However, some elderly escape from frailty and reach advanced age free of the consequences of inflammaging. This process has been called immunological remodeling, and it is the hallmark of healthy aging as described in the studies of centenarians in Italy. The biological markers of healthy aging are still a matter of debate, and the studies on the topic have focused on inflammatory versus remodeling processes and molecules. The sub-clinical inflammatory status associated with aging might be a deleterious event for populations living in countries where chronic infectious diseases are not prevalent. Nevertheless, in other parts of the world where they are, two possibilities may occur. Inflammatory responses may have a protective effect against these infectious agents. At the same time, the long-term consequences of protective immune responses during chronic infections may result in accelerated immunosenescence in these individuals. Therefore, the biological markers of healthy aging can vary according to environmental, cultural, and geographical settings that reflect worldwide, and in a non-biased, non-westernized perspective, the changes that we experience regarding our contacts with microorganisms and the outcomes of such contacts.

Padrão alimentar de idosos longevos não frágeis e sua relação com baixo peso, massa, força muscular e teste de velocidade de marcha / Dietary pattern of non-frail very old people and relationship with underweight, muscle mass and strength and gait speed test

Resumo Objetivos Identificar o padrão alimentar de idosos longevos não frágeis e avaliar a associação desse padrão a composição corporal, força muscular e teste de velocidade de marcha. Métodos Estudo transversal com uma amostra de 96 idosos com idade ≥80 anos, não frágeis. O consumo alimentar foi analisado por meio de três registros alimentares não consecutivos e a massa muscular por meio da área muscular do braço. A força muscular foi medida por dinamometria. A análise de Cluster foi utilizada para distinguir os padrões alimentares. Realizou-se a análise bivariada e a Regressão de Poisson multivariado, explorando a relação dos padrões alimentares com as variáveis independentes específicas. Resultados Foram identificados dois padrões alimentares, rotulados de padrão saudável e padrão tradicional. A prevalência de baixo peso nos idosos do padrão tradicional foi 10% (IC95% 1,01-1,20) maior do que nos idosos do padrão saudável e está prevalência praticamente manteve-se (RP 1,09; IC 1,00-1,18) no modelo ajustado por funcionalidade. Quanto a classificação da área muscular do braço os idosos do padrão tradicional apresentaram 15% (IC95% 1,00-1,32) maior prevalência de baixa massa muscular, quando comparada com os idosos do padrão saudável. Essa prevalência no modelo ajustado por funcionalidade, deixou de ser estatisticamente significativa. Não foi encontrada associação do padrão alimentar com força muscular e teste de velocidade de marcha. Conclusões Os achados demonstraram que os idosos adeptos ao padrão alimentar saudável tem menor risco de baixo peso e que a baixa massa muscular está provavelmente mais associada a funcionalidade do que ao padrão alimentar.

Abstract Objectives To identify the dietary pattern of non-frail very old people and to evaluate the association of this pattern with body composition, strength, and gait speed. Methods Cross-sectional study with a sample of 96 old people aged 80 or over, non-frail. Food consumption was analyzed using three non-consecutive food records. Muscle mass was assessed using arm muscular area. Muscle strength was measured by grip strength. Cluster analysis was used to distinguish dietary patterns. Bivariate analysis and multivariate Poisson Regression were performed, exploring the relationship between dietary patterns and specific independent variables. Results Two dietary patterns were identified, labeled healthy and traditional. The prevalence of underweight among the old people of the traditional pattern was 10% (95%CI 1.01-1.20) higher than among the old people of the healthy pattern and this prevalence was practically maintained (PR 1.09; 95%CI 1.00-1.18) in the model adjusted by functionality. Regarding the classification of the arm muscular area, the old people of the traditional pattern presented 15% (95%CI 1.00-1.32) more prevalence of low muscle mass, when compared with the old people of the healthy pattern. This prevalence in the functionality-adjusted model was no longer statistically significant. No association was found between dietary pattern and strength and gait speed. Conclusions The findings showed that old people who adhere to healthy dietary patterns have a lower risk of underweight and that low muscle mass is probably more associated with functionality than with dietary patterns.

Reduced frequency of T lymphocytes expressing CTLA-4 in frontotemporal dementia compared to Alzheimer's disease.

Studies suggest that inflammation is involved in the neurodegenerative cascade of dementias. Immunological mechanisms may be part of the pathophysiological process in frontotemporal dementia (FTD), but up till now only vague evidence of such mechanisms has been presented. The B7- CD28/CTLA-4 pathway is an important immunological signaling pathway involved in modulation of T cell activation. The aim of this study was to compare the expression of molecules associated with co-stimulatory signaling in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of FTD to Alzheimer disease (AD) and control groups. Our results confirm the previous demonstrated increased expression of CD80 in CD14+ Alzheimer patients T cells but show, for the first time, a reduction in the expression of CTLA-4 in CD4+ FTD cells. As CTLA-4 is the most potent negative regulators of T-cell activation we speculated that peripheral T lymphocytes in FTD are more activated and this could be involved in the neurodegeneration observed in this dementia.

Obesidade em idosos / Obesity in the elderly

O envelhecimento determina diversas modificações na composição corporal. O envelhecimento está associado a aumento da massa gordurosa e mudanças no seu padrão de distribuição. Os riscos associados ao aumento da massa gordura ou decorrentes do baixo peso são diferentes nos idosos. Em decorrência disto, a Organização Mundial de Saúde recomenda uma alteração no Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) em idosos. Os pontos de corte de IMC atualmente utilizados para a avaliação do estado nutricional de idosos são: baixo peso (IMC <22kg/m2), eutrofia (IMC entre 22 a 27kg/m2) e sobrepeso (IMC >27kg/m2). A prevalência de muitas complicações associadas à obesidade - como hipertensão arterialsistêmica, diabetes mellitus, doença cardiovascular certos tipos de câncer, síndrome de apnéia/hipopnéia do sono e osteoartrite - também aumenta durante o envelhecimento. Entretanto, vários estudos têm demonstrado que o sobrepeso em pacientes idosos não se associa com aumento da mortalidade geral. Estudos demonstram que o sobrepeso reduz a mortalidade por todas as causas em idosos. Esta redução gera um paradoxo ao ir contra as evidências em jovens. Deve-se salientar, contudo, que o aumento da mortalidade decorrente do baixo peso advém da sarcopenia. Nos pacientes obesos um quadro preocupante, portanto, é o desenvolvimento da obesidade sarcopênica. Conclui-se, então, que o controle de peso em idosos apresenta inúmeras particularidades. O sobrepeso é benéfico para os idosos, por isso o ajuste no valor do IMC. Nos pacientes obesos reconhecer e controlar os sintomas das comorbidades diretamente relacionadas com o excesso de peso assim como evitar ganhos ou perdas involuntárias de peso entre os idosos é uma prioridade.

Aging produces several changes in body composition. Aging is associated with an increase in body fat and changes in their distribution pattern. The risks associated with an increase in body fat or from low weight are different in the elderly. As a result, the World Health Organization recommends a modification in the Body Mass Index (BMI) in the elderly. The BMI cutoffs currently used to assess the nutritional status of the elderly are: underweight (BMI <22kg/m2), normal weight (BMI between 22 and 27kg/m2) and overweight (BMI> 27kg/m2). The prevalence of many complications associated with obesity - such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome and osteoarthritis - also increases during the aging process. However, several studies have shown that overweight in elderly patients is not associated with increased mortality. Studies show that overweight reduces all-cause mortality among the elderly. This reduction is a paradox that contradicts evidences for other age groups. It should be noted, however, that sarcopenia associated with lower weight accounts for this increase in mortality. In obese patients a worrying picture is, therefore, the development of sarcopenic obesity. We thus conclude that weight control in the elderly has many peculiarities. Overweight is beneficial for the elderly, hence the adjustment in BMI values. Recognizing and managing comorbid conditions directly related to weight excess, at the same time, avoiding involuntary weight changes should be a priority in the care of the elderly.

Disease-specific expression of the serotonin-receptor 5-HT(2C) in natural killer cells in Alzheimer's dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia (AD) is a degenerative brain disorder characterized mainly by cholinergic failure, but other neuro-transmitters are also deficient especially at late stages of the disease. Misfolded ß-amyloid peptide has been identified as a causative agent, however inflammatory changes also play a pivotal role. Even though the most prominent pathology is seen in the cognitive functions, specific abnormalities of the central nervous system (CNS) are also reflected in the periphery, particularly in the immune responses of the body. The aim of this study was to characterize the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems in AD, which are also markedly disrupted along with the hallmark acetyl-choline dysfunction. Peripheral blood mono-nuclear cells (PBMCs) from demented patients were judged against comparison groups including individuals with late-onset depression (LOD), as well as non-demented and non-depressed subjects. Cellular sub-populations were evaluated by mono-clonal antibodies against various cell surface receptors: CD4/CD8 (T-lymphocytes), CD19 (B-lymphocytes), CD14 (monocytes), and CD56 (natural-killer (NK)-cells). The expressions of dopamine D(3) and D(4), as well as serotonin 5-HT(1A), 5-HT(2A), 5-HT(2B) and 5-HT(2C) were also assessed. There were no significant differences among the study groups with respect to the frequency of the cellular sub-types, however a unique profound increase in 5-HT(2C) receptor exclusively in NK-cells was observed in AD. The disease-specific expression of 5-HT(2C), as well as the NK-cell cyto-toxicity, has been linked with cognitive derangement in dementia. These changes not only corroborate the existence of bi-directional communication between the immune system and the CNS, but also elucidate the role of inflammatory activity in AD pathology, and may serve as potential biomarkers for less invasive and early diagnostic purposes as well.

Ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, and beta-carotene reduce oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines in mononuclear cells of Alzheimer's disease patients.

OBJECTIVES: The in vitro effect of a vitamin complex in generating and reducing oxidative species in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) and plasma of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and healthy subjects (HS) was evaluated. METHODS: Two concentrations of a vitamin complex ([A] and [20A]) with ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, and beta-carotene were incubated with either mononuclear cells or plasma. The generation of oxidizing species was measured in a luminol-dependent chemiluminescence assay and the reducing response by the MTT dye reduction assay. The levels of cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1ß, IL-6, and IL-4) were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that the increase in the vitamin complex concentration reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and enhanced cellular reduction capacity in cells of AD patients in concentration [20A]. Plasma reduction capacity rose significantly for both groups (AD and HS). Concentration [A] did not alter the IL-1ß production, increased IL-4 production in both groups and lowered IL-6 production in AD cells. Concentration [20A] increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß and IL-6) and decreased IL-4 production by PBMNC of HS leading to a pro-inflammatory status. DISCUSSION: The antioxidant vitamin complex was effective in reducing oxidative stress in PBMNC of AD patients by lowering ROS production, improving cellular antioxidant capacities and modifying cytokine induced inflammation.

Adesão ao uso do primeiro par de óculos por estudantes da primeira série do ensino fundamental / Acceptance of initial spectacle prescription for children in their first-year at primary school

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a adesão dos escolares do primeiro ano do ensino fundamental ao uso do primeiro par de óculose identificar barreiras ao uso da correção óptica. MÉTODOS. Foi realizado um estudo transversal descritivo em população de 62 escolares do primeiro ano do ensino fundamental da cidade de Santana do Ipanema (Alagoas) que tiveram a prescrição do primeiro par de óculos durante a realização da Campanha "olho no Olho-2002". Para a escolha da armação dos óculos utilizou-se um kit composto por armações de três tamanhos (pequeno, médio e grande), um modelo com cor sugestiva para o sexo feminino, um sugestivo para o sexo masculino e outro unissex. Após 3 meses da entrega dos óculos, voltou-se as escolas públicas, em data previamente marcada, quando as crianças responderam a um questionário com questões abertas sobre a melhora ou piora da visão com os óculos, razões do não uso dos óculos, frequência do uso dos óculos, razões de gostar ou não dos óculos, comentários sobre o que os seus colegas de classe e seus pais pensam sobre o uso dos óculos e se tem familiar usuário de óculos. Para o processamento dos dados foi construído um banco de dados com o software Access do Office 2000. As análises estatísticas foram feitas com o programa SPSS 10.0. RESULTADOS: A idade, o sexo, ter familiar usuário de óculos e AV sem correção menor do que 1,0 em ambos os olhos, ou AV sem correção 1,0 em pelo menos um dos olhos, não influenciaram na adesão ao uso dos óculos. Os comentários dos colegas de classe sobre o uso de óculos foram principalmente negativos (45,16 por cento), enquanto o dos pais foram principalmente positivos (79,03 por cento). O gostar dos óculos influenciou na adesão ao uso dos óculos. As razões apontadas pelos que não gostaram dos óculos foram dificuldade de ajuste da armação no rosto e preconceito dos colegas de classe. CONCLUSÃO: A adesão ao primeiro par de óculos tem pouco a ver com a melhora da AV e muito com o mundo social da criança. Os principais fatores relacionados com a adesão parecem ser uma armação de óculos bem adaptada à face e a aprovação pelos colegas estudantes.

PURPOSE:To evaluate the acceptance of initial spectacle wear by children in their first year at a public primary school, andto identify barriers in the use of optical correction. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed. The study group consisted of 62 children in their first year at primary school in the town of Santana do Ipanema (State of Alagoas, Brazil). The children had been referred to ophthalmological examination following visual acuity (VA) screening in "Olho no Olho-2002" (Eye to Eye - 2002), a public health campaign jointly sponsored by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Brazilian Ophthalmologic Council. The children chose spectacle frames from a kit containing small, medium and large sizes, in three fashionable designs aimed at girls, boys and a unisex style. Three months after spectacle delivery the children were asked to fill in a questionnaire on: vision improvement or worsening after wearing the spectacles; reasons for and against wearing them; frequency of spectacle wear; reasons for liking or disliking the spectacles; peers, parents and relatives opinion on spectacle wear and how many, if any, relatives/family members wore spectacles. A database for processing the results was built using Access Office 2000 software. Statistical analysis were performed with SPSS 10.0 program. RESULTS: Age, sex, spectacle-wearing relatives, uncorrected VA under 1.0 (20/20) in both eyes and uncorrected 1.0 (20/20) VA in at least one eye did not affect acceptance. Comments from peers about spectacles were unfavourable in 45.16 percent of cases while those from parents were favourable in 79.03 percent. Enthusiasm for wearing spectacles favoured acceptance. Poor frame to face adjustment and peer disapproval were the main reasons cited for spectacle rejection. CONCLUSION: Vision improvement apparently bears no relation to acceptance. Rather, good frame fit and peer approval seems to be the determinant factors for spectacle wear.

Ten-year follow-up of a case series of primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland: clinical features, surgical treatment and histopathological findings.

PURPOSE: To describe and analyze the features of a cases series of patients with primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland, its surgical treatment, and histopathological findings. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of files from patients with primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland in the period from 1997 to 2007. All patients with primary epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland were included in this study. Data on gender, age, clinical features, surgical treatment, histopathological findings and follow-up were collected. The slides with histological sections of the tumors were reviewed by the same pathologist. RESULTS: During the study period, there were 12 patients, 5 (41.7%) with benign tumors, all pleomorphic adenomas (benign mixed tumor) and 7 (58.3%) with malignant neoplasms, thus distributed: four cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma, two of mucoepidermoid carcinoma and one carcinoma expleomorphic adenoma. Globally, patients mean age was 54.1 years-old (ranging from 14 to 70 years-old), with mean age of 52.4 years-old (ranging from 14 to 65 years-old) for benign neoplasms, and 55.3 years-old for malignant neoplasms (ranging from 26 to 70 years-old). Clinical follow-up information, ranging from 2 to 10 years-old, was available for all patients. Three patients developed distant metastasis and died of disease. CONCLUSIONS: The most frequent primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland were pleomorphic adenoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma during the study period. Malignant tumors were more frequent than benign tumors. The histopathological diagnosis and the disease initial stage can play a significant role in patient's survival.

Principais síndrome geriátricas / Main geriatric syndromes

Revisão acerca das grandes síndromes geriátricas: incapacidade cognitiva, instabilidade postural, imobilidade e incapacidade comunicativa, com enfoque nos aspectos etiológicos, diagnóstico e condutas terapêuticas. A saúde do idoso está estritamente relacionada com a sua funcionalidade global, definida como a capacidade de gerir a própria vida ou cuidar de si mesmo. Essa capacidade de funcionar sozinho é avaliada por meio da análise das atividades de vida diária, que são tarefas do cotidiano realizadas pelo paciente. A saúde do idoso é determinada pelo funcionamento harmonioso de quatro domínios funcionais: cognição, humor, mobilidade e comunicação. A perda dessas funções resulta nas grandes síndromes geriátricas abordadas.

Review about major geriatric syndromes: cognitive impairment, postural instability, immobility and communicative disability, focusing on the etiology, diagnosis and therapeutic aspects. The health of the elderly is closely related to their overall functionality, defined as their ability to manage their own life or take care of themselves. This ability of functioning alone is evaluated by the analysis of the daily activities, which are the daily tasks carried out by the patient. The elderly health is determined by the harmonic functioning of four functional domains: cognition, mood, mobility and communication. The loss of these functions results in the major geriatric syndromes addressed.

Ten-year follow-up of a case series of primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland: clinical features, surgical treatment and histopathological findings / Dez anos de acompanhamento de uma série de casos de neoplasias epiteliais primárias da glândula lacrimal: características clínicas, tratamento cirúrgico e achados histopatológicos

PURPOSE: To describe and analyze the features of a cases series of patients with primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland, its surgical treatment, and histopathological findings. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of files from patients with primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland in the period from 1997 to 2007. All patients with primary epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland were included in this study. Data on gender, age, clinical features, surgical treatment, histopathological findings and follow-up were collected. The slides with histological sections of the tumors were reviewed by the same pathologist. RESULTS: During the study period, there were 12 patients, 5 (41.7 percent) with benign tumors, all pleomorphic adenomas (benign mixed tumor) and 7 (58.3 percent) with malignant neoplasms, thus distributed: four cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma, two of mucoepidermoid carcinoma and one carcinoma expleomorphic adenoma. Globally, patients mean age was 54.1 years-old (ranging from 14 to 70 years-old), with mean age of 52.4 years-old (ranging from 14 to 65 years-old) for benign neoplasms, and 55.3years-old for malignant neoplasms (ranging from 26 to 70 years-old). Clinical follow-up information, ranging from 2 to 10 years-old, was available for all patients. Three patients developed distant metastasis and died of disease. CONCLUSIONS: The most frequent primary epithelial neoplasms of the lacrimal gland were pleomorphic adenoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma during the study period. Malignant tumors were more frequent than benign tumors. The histopathological diagnosis and the disease initial stage can play a significant role in patient's survival.

OBJETIVO: Descrever e analisar as características de uma série de casos de portadores de neoplasias epiteliais primárias da glândula lacrimal, o tratamento cirúrgico, assim como os achados histopatológicos. MÉTODOS: Avaliação retrospectiva dos arquivos de pacientes com neoplasias epiteliais primárias da glândula lacrimal, no período de 1997 até 2007. Todos os pacientes com tumores epiteliais primários da glândula lacrimal foram incluídos neste estudo. Foram analisados os dados sobre sexo, idade, características clínicas, tratamento cirúrgico, achados histopatológicos e seguimento dos pacientes. As lâminas com secções histológicas dos tumores foram revisadas pelo mesmo patologista. RESULTADOS: No período do estudo, foram encontrados 12 pacientes, sendo 5 (41,7 por cento) portadores de tumores benignos, todos adenomas pleomórficos (tumor benigno misto), e 7 (58,3 por cento) com neoplasias malignas, assim distribuídos: quatro casos de carcinoma adenóide cístico, dois de carcinoma mucoepidermóide e um de carcinoma ex-adenoma pleomórfico. Analisando-se de modo global, a idade média dos portadores foi de 54,1 anos (variando de 14 a 70 anos); com média de idade de 52,4 anos (variando de 14 a 65 anos) para neoplasias benignas, e 55,3 para neoplasias malignas (variando de 26 a 70 anos). Informações do seguimento, variando de 2 a 10 anos, estavam disponíveis para todos os pacientes. Três pacientes desenvolveram metástases distantes e morreram devido à doença. CONCLUSÕES: A maioria das neoplasias epiteliais primárias da glândula lacrimal foi o adenoma pleomórfico e o carcinoma adenóide cístico no período de estudo. Os tumores malignos foram mais frequentes que os benignos. O diagnóstico histopatológico e o estadiamento inicial da doença podem desempenhar uma papel significante na sobrevida do paciente.

[Trachoma: epidemiologic study in students in Alagoas State--Brazil]. / Tracoma: estudo epidemiológico de escolares em Alagoas--Brasil.

PURPOSE: To define the detection rate of trachoma in scholars from Alagoas--Brazil. METHODS: The sample included 6,424 children and adolescents. Scholar's clinical evaluation was performed by medical students under the supervision of professors of the Department of Ophthalmology, according to the World Health Organization guidelines. The clinical evaluation was characterized by eyelashes, eyelids, conjunctiva and cornea examination in both eyes. The scholars were cataloged and data of name, sex, age, clinical forms diagnosis and city were recorded. Regarding the age, the students were divided into three groups: group A (<10 years old), group B (10-14 years old) and group C (>14 years old). RESULTS: The detection rate of trachoma was 4.5%. From 3,280 male scholars, 161 (4.9%) cases were confirmed; from 3,144 female scholars, 131 (4.2%) cases were considered confirmed. From the total scholars in group A, B and C; respectively 175 (5.3%), 113 (8.0%) and 4 (1.6%) were considered confirmed cases. CONCLUSION: In this region, it seems that trachoma has not been eradicated and, therefore, must remain as a differential diagnosis of chronic follicular conjunctivitis in children and adolescents from this region.

Tracoma: estudo epidemiológico de escolares em Alagoas - Brasil / Trachoma: epidemiologic study of scholars from Alagoas State - Brazil

OBJETIVOS: Definir a taxa de detecção de tracoma em escolares do Estado de Alagoas - Brasil. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída de 6.424 crianças e adolescentes. A avaliação clínica dos escolares foi realizada por graduandos da Faculdade de Medicina sob supervisão de professores do Departamento de Oftalmologia, seguindo os critérios da Organização Mundial de Saúde. A avaliação clínica foi caracterizada por exame dos cílios, das pálpebras, da conjuntiva e da córnea de ambos os olhos. Os estudantes foram catalogados, anotando-se nome, sexo, idade, diagnóstico da forma clínica e município. Quanto à idade, os escolares foram divididos em três grupos: grupo A (<10 anos), grupo B (10-14 anos) e grupo C (>14 anos). RESULTADOS: A taxa de detecção de tracoma foi de 4,5 por cento. Dos 3.280 estudantes do sexo masculino, 161 (4,9 por cento) casos foram considerados confirmados, e dos 3.144 estudantes do sexo feminino, 131 (4,2 por cento) casos foram considerados confirmados. Do total de escolares do grupo A, B e C, respectivamente 175 (5,3 por cento), 113 (8,0 por cento) e 4 (1,6 por cento), foram considerados casos confirmados. CONCLUSÃO: Nesta região, o tracoma parece não ter sido erradicado e, portanto, deve permanecer como diagnóstico diferencial de conjuntivite folicular crônica em crianças e adolescentes advindos dela.

PURPOSE: To define the detection rate of trachoma in scholars from Alagoas - Brazil. METHODS: The sample included 6,424 children and adolescents. Scholar's clinical evaluation was performed by medical students under the supervision of professors of the Department of Ophthalmology, according to the World Health Organization guidelines. The clinical evaluation was characterized by eyelashes, eyelids, conjunctiva and cornea examination in both eyes. The scholars were cataloged and data of name, sex, age, clinical forms diagnosis and city were recorded. Regarding the age, the students were divided into three groups: group A (<10 years old), group B (10-14 years old) and group C (>14 years old). RESULTS: The detection rate of trachoma was 4.5 percent. From 3,280 male scholars, 161 (4.9 percent) cases were confirmed; from 3,144 female scholars, 131 (4.2 percent) cases were considered confirmed. From the total scholars in group A, B and C; respectively 175 (5.3 percent), 113 (8.0 percent) and 4 (1.6 percent) were considered confirmed cases. CONCLUSION: In this region, it seems that trachoma has not been eradicated and, therefore, must remain as a differential diagnosis of chronic follicular conjunctivitis in children and adolescents from this region.

Pulmonary hemorrhage as a manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus.

The authors report a case of a 19-year-old woman admitted for the investigation of fever and hemolytic anemia for the previous 2 months. As an inpatient, she had convulsions and sudden loss of consciousness, developing hemoptysis, hypoxia, and respiratory insufficiency. Examination showed pericardial effusions on the echocardiogram and bilateral alveolar condensations on the thoracic radiograph. A hypothetical diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus was made, and measurement of the antinuclear factor was requested along with daily pulse therapy methylprednisolone, in spite of which the outcome was fatal. Afterwards, the result of the antinuclear factor test was positive, with a titer of 1:5120, showing a fine punctiform pattern, fulfilling the criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus according to the American College of Rheumatology. Secondary pulmonary hemorrhage in this connective tissue disease is an uncommon but serious complication that involves a high level of mortality in spite of intensive treatment, as is also reported in the literature.