Thymol and eugenol against Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato engorged females: Biological, histopathological and bioinformatic analysis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive biology and histopathology of the ovaries of engorged females of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato exposed to combinations of thymol and eugenol, as well as to evaluate in silico the possible interactions of thymol and eugenol in tick cell membranes. To evaluate the tick reproductive biology, the adult immersion test (AIT) was performed, in which the engorged females were immersed in solutions of thymol and eugenol, combined or alone, at concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL. Two control groups (water and 3% DMSO) were also performed. The ticks were kept in a controlled chamber (B.O.D - 27 ± 1 °C and 80% ± 5% RH) to evaluate egg production and viability. To perform the ovaries histopathological evaluation, females were immersed in combination of thymol and eugenol (each at 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL) and control (water and 3% DMSO) solutions. After immersion, the females were kept in B.O.D (27 ± 1 °C and RH of 80% ± 5%) for four days, they were dissected and the ovaries processed for histological analysis. In addition, an in silico analysis was performed using PASS online® software to predict probability activity (PA) of thymol and eugenol in cell membranes. The treatment with the combination of thymol and eugenol (each at 5.0 mg/mL) caused a reduction (p < 0.01) in oviposition, while the treatments with thymol (5.0 mg/mL) and combination of thymol and eugenol (5.0 mg/mL) reduced (p < 0.05) the egg viability. The treatment with combination of thymol and eugenol (5.0 mg/mL) resulted in a control percentage of 99.9%, while in the other treatments, control percentages below 56% were observed. Oocytes from the females exposed to the combinations of thymol and eugenol (each compound at 2.5 mg/mL) showed histopathological changes, except on oocyte V, while those treated with these compounds alone at 2.5 mg/mL, did not reveal any change. Changes in the shape of the oocyte, presence of vacuoles in the cytoplasm and germinal vesicle, reduction and fusion of yolk granules and rupture of some oocytes were observed. In silico analysis, showed that these compounds can act as membrane permeability inhibitors, membrane permeability agonists, membrane integrity antagonists and apoptosis agonists. We conclude that the combination of thymol and eugenol causes changes in the reproductive biology and morphophysiology of engorged females oocytes. The in silico analysis using thymol and eugenol revealed the possibility of disorganization in the cell membranes, a fact that may explain the histopathological alterations observed.

From the laboratory to the field: efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes to control the cattle tick.

BACKGROUND: The control of ticks is challenged by the resistance of tick populations to chemical acaricides. In this study, we evaluated, under laboratory conditions, the efficacy of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus engorged females with varying body weights (150, 200, 250, 300 or 350 mg per female) or from eight different geographical populations. We also determined the efficacy of H. bacteriophora for tick control under field conditions. RESULTS: R. microplus engorged females with varying body weights exposed to 150 juveniles of H. bacteriophora resulted in a high control efficacy (97.5% to 98.4%). Tests with females from different geographical populations comprised eight tick strains treated with H. bacteriophora and their respective control groups. The biological parameters of females exposed to nematode treatments did not differ significantly and resulted in 89% to 99% of control efficacy. Trials conducted under field conditions were performed in field plots with Megathyrsus maximus grass. Treatment groups received eight cadavers of Tenebrio molitor fully colonized with H. bacteriophora at 1 week prior to the release of female ticks, whereas control groups were untreated. On the first day of the experiment, six engorged females were distributed in each plot. On day 42 and day 63, the apical portion of the grasses with R. microplus larvae were collected and quantified. The population of R. microplus larvae was reduced up to 73.1% in plots treated with H. bacteriophora at day 63 after treatment. CONCLUSION: R. microplus engorged females with varying body weights or from different geographical populations were highly susceptible to H. bacteriophora. The field test demonstrated the efficacy of H. bacteriophora in reducing R. microplus larvae in infested pastures. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of the formulation with fipronil and fluazuron on the reproductive biology and ovaries histopathology of Rhipicephalus microplus engorged females.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a commercial formulation containing fipronil and fluazuron on the reproductive biology and the morphology of ovaries from Rhipicephalus microplus engorged females. To carry out the study, three calves were artificially infested every 3 days with approximately 5000 larvae. On day 0, the animals were treated with a commercial formulation containing fipronil (1.25 mg/kg) + fluazuron (2.5 mg/kg). Before the application of the acaricide, engorged females of R. microplus were collected to constitute the control group (10 for biology analyses and 20 for histology analyses). After applying the commercial formulation, naturally detached engorged females were recovered on days + 5, + 10, and + 20 (10 engorged females/day) to evaluate their reproductive biology, and on days + 4, + 12, and + 20 (20 engorged females/day) for histological evaluation of the ovaries. Females from the treated groups produced smaller amounts of eggs, exhibiting lower viability when compared to eggs from the control group (p < 0.05). The ovaries of females from all treated groups (+ 4, + 12, and + 20) showed morphological changes, including: cytoplasmic disorganization, cytoplasmic degradation, irregular shape of the oocyte and germinal vesicle, reduction and vacuolization of yolk granules and oocyte disruption. Oocytes were observed in smaller numbers in all stages of development (I, II, III, IV, and V) and greater numbers of indeterminate oocytes were verified in the ovaries of the treated groups when compared to the control group. Therefore, results showed that the commercial formulation containing fipronil and fluazuron affected the reproductive biology, caused morphological changes in the ovaries, and reduced the number of oocytes in R. microplus engorged females.

Unplanned Transfers From Intermediate Care Units to Intensive Care Units: A Cohort Study.

This study evaluated unplanned transfers from the intermediate care unit (IMCU) to the intensive care unit (ICU) among urgent admissions. This retrospective, observational study was conducted in 2 ICUs and 1 IMCU. Three patterns of urgent admission were assessed: admissions to the ICU only, admissions to the IMCU only, and admissions to the IMCU with subsequent transfer to the ICU. Of 5296 admissions analyzed, 1396 patients (26.4%) were initially admitted to the IMCU. Of these, 172 (12.3%) were transferred from the IMCU to the ICU. Mortality was higher in patients transferred from the IMCU to the ICU than in the 3900 ICU-only patients (odds ratio, 3.22; 95% CI, 1.52-6.80). Most transfers from the IMCU to the ICU (135; 78.5%) were due to deterioration of the condition for which the patient was admitted. Patient transfers from the IMCU to the ICU were common, were associated with increased hospital mortality, and were mostly due to deterioration in the condition that was the reason for admission.

Rhamnolipids and essential oils in the control of mosquito-borne tropical diseases.

The diseases transmitted by mosquito vectors are a great public health issue. Thus, effective vector control becomes the main strategy to reduce their prevalence. However, insecticide resistance has become a huge concern for the mitigation of mosquitoes; here, we propose the use of rhamnolipids in emulsion with clove oil against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. The toxicity of rhamnolipids and clove oil to two species of mosquitoes transmitting tropical diseases was investigated. After 24 h, the LC50 was 140 mg/L when rhamnolipids were used and 154 mg/L when clove oil was used against Aedes aegypti larvae. In the case of Culex quinquefasciatus, the LC50 was 130 mg/L for rhamnolipids and 19 mg/L for clove oil. When the concentrations of the upper limits of one of the solutions (rhamnolipid or clove oil) were mixed, 100% mortality was obtained after 24 h. The bioassay of insecticidal action for solutions of rhamnolipids and clove oil in the lower limit, upper limit, and lethal concentration 50 to determine the effect on 50% of the population (KD50) achieved low results from KD50 to the upper limit compared to the other concentrations for both Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. The rhamnolipids and clove oil at the upper limit concentration had the greatest repellent activity against the two mosquito species. Bioassays using different concentrations of rhamnolipids revealed variations in the morphology of the intestinal epithelium (800 mg/L). A concentration of 900 mg/L led to the most severe morphological changes in the organization of the epithelium and the cells lining the intestines of these larvae. When larvae were exposed to a concentration of 1000 mg/L, the marginalization of chromatin in the nucleus of epithelial cells was very severe, indicating the onset of cell death.Key points• The toxicity of rhamnolipids and clove oil has a larvicidal, insecticidal, and repellent effect.• The combination of concentrations of these compounds enhances their action.• Different concentrations of rhamnolipids led to severe morphological changes in the organization of the epithelium and the cells and the intestines of larvae.

El cuidado humanizado en oncología pediátrica y la aplicación del juego por la enfermería / Humanised care in paediatric oncology and the application of play by nurses

Resumen Objetivo: Discutir el cuidado humanizado en oncología pediátrica, entendiendo la percepción y aplicación del juego por parte del equipo de enfermería. Método: Este fue un estudio cualitativo realizado con 13 profesionales del equipo de enfermería de un hospital oncológico brasileño. Los datos fueron recopilados de octubre de 2017 a febrero de 2018, a través de un guion de entrevista. Resultados: Se elaboraron tres categorías: el significado del cuidado en oncología pediátrica para el equipo de enfermería, percepción del juego para el equipo de enfermería en el cuidado de niños y niñas con cáncer y estrategias que contribuyen a la aplicación del juego en el cuidado. Estas últimas indicaban que el juego es una herramienta importante que favorece la comunicación, permitir la expresión de sentimientos y permiten el rescate del mundo infantil. Conclusión: Los profesionales de enfermería perciben la importancia del uso de estrategias lúdicas en el cuidado en oncología pediátrica, ya que permiten la aproximación de las niñas y los niños con el mundo infantil. Para ello, se evidenció la importancia del uso de las tecnologías leves y duras en la atención, permitiendo el ejercicio de la humanización.

Abstract Objective: To discuss humanised care in paediatric oncology, understanding the perception and application of the game by the nursing team. Methods: This was a qualitative study carried out with 13 professionals from the nursing team of a Brazilian oncology hospital. The data was collected from October 2017 to February 2018, through an interview script. Results: Three categories were developed: the meaning of care in paediatric oncology for the nursing team, perception of play for the nursing team in the care of children with cancer and strategies that contribute to the application of play in care. The latter indicated that play is an important tool that promotes communication, allows the expression of feelings and allows the rescue of the child's world. Conclusion: Nursing professionals perceive the importance of the use of playful strategies in paediatric oncology care, since they allow the approach of children to the child's world. For this purpose, the importance of the use of light and hard technologies in the care was evidenced, allowing the exercise of humanization.

Resumo Objetivo: Discutir o cuidado humanizado em oncologia pediátrica, compreendendo a percepção e aplicação do lúdico pela equipe de enfermagem. Métodos: Este foi um estudo qualitativo realizado com 13 profissionais da equipe de enfermagem de um hospital de oncologia brasileiro. Os dados foram coletados entre Outubro de 2017 e Fevereiro de 2018, através de entrevista guiada por um roteiro. Resultados: Foram elaboradas três categorias: o significado dos cuidados em oncologia pediátrica para a equipe de enfermagem, a percepção do jogo para a equipe de enfermagem no cuidado de crianças com câncer e estratégias que contribuem para a aplicação do lúdico nos cuidados. Este último indicou que o jogo é um instrumento importante que favorece a comunicação, permite a expressão de sentimentos e permite o resgate do mundo da criança. Conclusão: Os profissionais de enfermagem percebem a importância da utilização de estratégias lúdicas nos cuidados oncológicos pediátricos, uma vez que permitem a aproximação ao mundo da criança. Para tal, foi evidenciada a importância do uso de tecnologias leves e duras nos cuidados, permitindo o exercício da humanização.

Necesidades de cuidado dentro del hospital del cuidador de personas con cancer / Care Needs of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer during Inpatient Stay / Necessidades de cuidado no âmbito hospitalar do cuidador de pessoas com câncer

Resumen Introducción La existencia de un paciente con cáncer en el seno de la familia implica desafíos y lleva a una necesidad de reorganización de la dinámica familiar para la prestación de cuidados, lo que puede provocar la negligencia de los auto-cuidados del cuidador, además de las necesidades de segundarización dentro del hospital, durante la hospitalización del ente enfermo. Objetivo comprender qué cuidados los familiares cuidadores de personas con cáncer gustarían recibir en el hospital. Materiales y Métodos estudio cualitativo, realizado en un hospital de cáncer de Brasil, con 14 familiares, en 2019. Las entrevistas fueron cerradas en el momento en que existía la saturación de datos y analizadas por la técnica de Análisis de Contenido. La investigación cumple con los aspectos éticos. Resultados la primera categoría reveló el acogimiento, las competencias de actitud del equipo, la asistencia psicológica y la casa de apoyo como medidas importantes que la institución ofrece a los cuidadores. La segunda categoría mostró qué cuidados los familiares gustarían recibir, y los testimonios revelaron la transferencia del cuidado de sí mismo a los demás, y aún las demandas de cuidado físico, espiritual y psicológico. Discusión es evidente que existe un acercamiento entre lo que el cuidador espera de la institución estudiada como cuidado de sí mismo, con la asistencia ofrecida. Conclusiones el estudio señala la necesidad de planificar estrategias de apoyo a los familiares cuidadores en el entorno hospitalario, además de grupos de apoyo interdisciplinario y apoyo psicológico continuo.

Abstract Introduction Having a patient with cancer in the family entails challenges leading to a need to reorganize family dynamics to provide care, which may result in neglecting caregiver's self-care and their needs at the hospital during inpatient stay. Objective To understand how family caregivers would like to be cared for during hospital stay. Materials and Methods A qualitative research was conducted with 14 family members in a Brazilian oncology hospital in 2019. Interviews were ended upon data saturation and later analyzed using the Content analysis method. Ethical aspects were considered in this research. Results The first category showed that welcoming, attitudinal competencies of the healthcare team, psychological support and home support are considered important measures that healthcare centers can provide caregivers. The second category identified how family members would like to be cared for through interviews, revealing care transference from oneself to the care of another, as well as physical, spiritual and psychological care demands. Discussion Our understanding is that care expectations of caregivers in the above healthcare center are close to the actual assistance offered to them. Conclusions A need for planning support strategies for family caregivers during inpatient stay has been pointed out in this study, in addition to the importance of interdisciplinary support groups and continuous psychological support that cover family members as part of these care programs.

Resumo Introdução A existência de um doente com câncer no seio familiar implica em desafios e conduz a uma necessidade de reorganização da dinâmica familiar para prestação de cuidados, o que pode ocasionar, na negligência do autocuidado do cuidador, além da secundarização das necessidades deste no âmbito hospitalar, durante internação do ente adoecido. O objetivo é compreender como os familiares cuidadores de pessoas com câncer gostariam de ser cuidados no cenário hospitalar. Materiais e Métodos pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em um hospital oncológico brasileiro, com 14 familiares, em 2019. As entrevistas foram encerradas no momento em que houve saturação de dados, e analisadas pela técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. A pesquisa respeitou os aspectos éticos. Resultados a primeira categoria revelou que o acolhimento, competências atitudinais da equipe, acompanhamento psicológico e a casa de apoio como medidas importantes que a instituição oferece aos cuidadores. A segunda categoria apresentou como os familiares gostariam de ser cuidados, e os depoimentos revelaram a transferência do cuidado de si para o outro, e ainda demandas de cuidado no âmbito físico, espiritual e psicológico. Discussão depreende-se que existe uma aproximação entre o que o cuidador espera da instituição estudada como cuidado para si, com a assistência que lhe é oferecida. Conclusões O estudo apontou para a necessidade de planejamento de estratégias de apoio aos familiares cuidadores no âmbito hospitalar, além de grupos de apoio interdisciplinares e suporte psicológico contínuo, incluindo os familiares no plano de cuidados.

Necesidades de cuidado dentro del hospital del cuidador de personas con cancer / Care Needs of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer during Inpatient Stay

Introducción: La existencia de un paciente con cáncer en el seno de la familia implica desafíos y lleva a una necesidad de reorganización de la dinámica familiar para la prestación de cuidados, lo que puede provocar la negligencia de los auto-cuidados del cuidador, además de las necesidades de segundarización dentro del hospital, durante la hospitalización del ente enfermo. Objetivo: comprender qué cuidados los familiares cuidadores de personas con cáncer gustarían recibir en el hospital. Materiales y Métodos: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un hospital de cáncer de Brasil, con 14 familiares, en 2019. Las entrevistas fueron cerradas en el momento en que existía la saturación de datos y analizadas por la técnica de Análisis de Contenido. La investigación cumple con los aspectos éticos. Resultados: la primera categoría reveló el acogimiento, las competencias de actitud del equipo, la asistencia psicológica y la casa de apoyo como medidas importantes que la institución ofrece a los cuidadores. La segunda categoría mostró qué cuidados los familiares gustarían recibir, y los testimonios revelaron la transferencia del cuidado de sí mismo a los demás, y aún las demandas de cuidado físico, espiritual y psicológico. Discusión: es evidente que existe un acercamiento entre lo que el cuidador espera de la institución estudiada como cuidado de sí mismo, con la asistencia ofrecida. Conclusiones: el estudio señala la necesidad de planificar estrategias de apoyo a los familiares cuidadores en el entorno hospitalario, además de grupos de apoyo interdisciplinario y apoyo psicológico continuo.

Introduction: Having a patient with cancer in the family entails challenges leading to a need to reorganize family dynamics to provide care, which may result in neglecting caregiver's self-care and their needs at the hospital during inpatient stay. Objective: To understand how family caregivers would like to be cared for during hospital stay. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research was conducted with 14 family members in a Brazilian oncology hospital in 2019. Interviews were ended upon data saturation and later analyzed using the Content analysis method. Ethical aspects were considered in this research. Results: The first category showed that welcoming, attitudinal competencies of the healthcare team, psychological support and home support are considered important measures that healthcare centers can provide caregivers. The second category identified how family members would like to be cared for through interviews, revealing care transference from oneself to the care of another, as well as physical, spiritual and psychological care demands. Discussion: Our understanding is that care expectations of caregivers in the above healthcare center are close to the actual assistance offered to them. Conclusions: A need for planning support strategies for family caregivers during inpatient stay has been pointed out in this study, in addition to the importance of interdisciplinary support groups and continuous psychological support that cover family members as part of these care programs.

Introdução: A existência de um doente com câncer no seio familiar implica em desafios e conduz a uma necessidade de reorganização da dinâmica familiar para prestação de cuidados, o que pode ocasionar, na negligência do autocuidado do cuidador, além da secundarização das necessidades deste no âmbito hospitalar, durante internação do ente adoecido. O objetivo é compreender como os familiares cuidadores de pessoas com câncer gostariam de ser cuidados no cenário hospitalar. Materiais e Métodos: pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em um hospital oncológico brasileiro, com 14 familiares, em 2019. As entrevistas foram encerradas no momento em que houve saturação de dados, e analisadas pela técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. A pesquisa respeitou os aspectos éticos. Resultados: a primeira categoria revelou que o acolhimento, competências atitudinais da equipe, acompanhamento psicológico e a casa de apoio como medidas importantes que a instituição oferece aos cuidadores. A segunda categoria apresentou como os familiares gostariam de ser cuidados, e os depoimentos revelaram a transferência do cuidado de si para o outro, e ainda demandas de cuidado no âmbito físico, espiritual e psicológico. Discussão: depreende-se que existe uma aproximação entre o que o cuidador espera da instituição estudada como cuidado para si, com a assistência que lhe é oferecida. Conclusões: O estudo apontou para a necessidade de planejamento de estratégias de apoio aos familiares cuidadores no âmbito hospitalar, além de grupos de apoio interdisciplinares e suporte psicológico contínuo, incluindo os familiares no plano de cuidados.

Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin as a potential cross-protective tick vaccine against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus.

Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, the brown ear tick, is an important disease vector of livestock in eastern, central and southern Africa. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus acaricide resistance requires the search for alternative methods for its control. Cystatins constitute a superfamily of cysteine peptidase inhibitors vital for tick blood feeding and development. These inhibitors were proposed as antigens in anti-tick vaccines. In this work, we applied structural and biochemical approaches to characterize a new cystatin named R. appendiculatus cystatin 2a (Racys2a). Structural modeling showed that this new protein possesses characteristic type 2 cystatin motifs, besides conservation of other structural patterns along the protein. Peptidase inhibitory assays with recombinant Racys2a showed modulation of tick and host cathepsins involved in blood digestion and immune system responses, respectively. A heterologous tick challenge with R. appendiculatus in rabbits immunized with recombinant Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin 2c (rBmcys2c) was performed to determine cross-reactivity. Histological staining showed that rBmcys2c vaccination caused damage to the gut, salivary gland and ovary tissues in R. appendiculatus. Furthermore, cystatin vaccine reduced the number of fully engorged adult females in 11.5 %. Consequently, strategies to increase the protection rate are necessary, including the selection of two or more antigens to compose a vaccine cocktail.

Combination of thymol and eugenol for the control of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato: Evaluation of synergism on immature stages and formulation development.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the combination of thymol with eugenol has a synergistic effect on the immature life stages of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), to evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of using these compounds in combination, and to develop a formulation combining thymol with eugenol with activity on immature stages of R. sanguineus s.l. To evaluate synergism, thymol and eugenol, combined (ratio 1:1) or not, were tested at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL on unfed larvae and nymphs using a larval packet test, and 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5.0 and 10 mg/mL on engorged larvae and nymphs using an immersion test. A cost estimate was calculated to produce 1 L of a solution containing a concentration of thymol and eugenol, combined or not, that could cause a tick mortality rate greater than 95 %. Finally, a formulation was developed, consisting of a micellar dispersion containing polymers (MDP), with thymol + eugenol (1:1), at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL, and the activity was evaluated on unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. For unfed larvae and nymphs, concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL and 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg/mL, respectively, presented synergistic effects. In tests with engorged larvae and nymphs, respective concentrations of 0.625, 1.25 and 2.5 mg/mL and 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL had synergistic effects. The estimated costs for producing a solution of 1 L with efficacy greater than 95 % was $5.97 using only thymol (15 mg/mL), $ 5.93 using only eugenol (15 mg/mL), and $ 3.97 using thymol + eugenol (1:1 - 5,0 mg/mL). In tests with MDP, the combination of thymol + eugenol resulted in a mortality rate higher than 95 % at concentration of 10 mg/mL for unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. Thus, the combination of thymol + eugenol, depending on the concentration, has synergistic effects and this combination lowers the cost for the active ingredients thymol and eugenol. The combination of thymol + eugenol in MDP had acaricidal activity against immature life stages of R. sanguineus s.l.

Incidência de lesão por pressão em pacientes internados e fatores de risco associados / Incidencia de las lesiones por presión en los pacientes hospitalizados y los factores de riesgo asociados / Incidence of pressure injury in hospitalized patients and associated risk factors

Objetivo avaliar incidência de lesão por pressão em pacientes internados em unidades de internação e fatores de riscos associados. Método estudo prospectivo, longitudinal, observacional. Os dados foram coletados por 60 dias consecutivos, utilizando-se formulário próprio, inspeção da pele, prontuário e prescrição médica. A análise foi realizada por estatística descritiva, teste de qui-quadrado e teste exato de Fisher. Resultados amostra constituída de 70 pacientes: 65,7% idosos, 30,0% diabéticos e 61,4% hipertensos. A incidência de lesão por pressão foi de 24,3% e houve associação estatisticamente significante entre uso de fraldas, mobilidade física prejudicada e mudança de decúbito. Quanto à classificação de Braden, 70,6% apresentaram risco severo e 64,7% das lesões foram classificadas como estágio I. Conclusão a imobilidade, o uso de fraldas e risco severo no momento da admissão foram encontrados nos pacientes que desenvolveram lesão.

Objetivo evaluar la incidencia de las lesiones por presión en los pacientes hospitalizados en unidades de internación y los factores de riesgo asociados. Método estudio prospectivo, longitudinal y de observación. Los datos se reunieron durante 60 días consecutivos, utilizando el formulario adecuado, la inspección de la piel, el cuadro médico y la prescripción médica. El análisis se realizó mediante estadísticas descriptivas, la prueba de chi-cuadrado y la prueba exacta de Fisher. Resultados muestra compuesta por 70 pacientes: 65,7% ancianos, 30,0% diabéticos y 61,4% hipertensos. La incidencia de lesiones por presión fue del 24,3% y hubo una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre el uso de pañales, el deterioro de la movilidad física y el cambio de decúbito. En cuanto a la clasificación de Braden, el 70,6% presentaba un riesgo grave y el 64,7% de las lesiones se clasificaron como etapa I. Conclusión la inmovilidad, el uso de pañales y el riesgo grave en el momento de la admisión se encontraron en pacientes que desarrollaron lesión.

Objective to evaluate the incidence of pressure injuries in patients admitted to hospital and associated risk factors. Method prospective, longitudinal, observational study. The data were collected for 60 consecutive days, using the proper form, skin inspection, medical chart and prescription. The analysis was performed by descriptive statistics, chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Results sample consisting of 70 patients: 65.7% elderly, 30.0% diabetics and 61.4% hypertensive. The incidence of pressure injury was 24.3% and there was a statistically significant association between diaper use, impaired physical mobility and decubitus change. As for Braden's classification, 70.6% presented severe risk and 64.7% of the injuries were classified as stage I. Conclusion immobility, use of diapers and severe risk at the time of admission were found in patients who developed injury.

Analysis of Nucleotide Alterations in the E6 Genomic Region of Human Papillomavirus Types 6 and 11 in Condyloma Acuminatum Samples from Brazil.

Condyloma acuminata (CA), or genital warts, are benign proliferative epidermal or mucous lesions that are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), mainly the low-risk types 6 and 11. HPV variants are defined as viral sequences that share identity in the nucleotide sequence of the L1 gene greater than 98%. Based on this criterion, HPV6 and 11 variant lineages have been studied, and there are ongoing attempts to correlate these genetic variants with different clinical findings of infection. Therefore, the aims of this study were to detect variants and nucleotide alterations present in the E6 regions of HPV types 6 and 11 found in CA samples, to correlate the HPV presence with the clinical-pathological data of the patients, and to determine phylogenetic relationships with variants from other places in the world. The E6 regions of 25 HPV6 samples and 7 HPV11 samples from CA were amplified using PCR with specific primers. The products were ligated to a cloning vector and five colonies of each sample were sequenced to observe the nucleotide alterations. Twelve samples were identified as the HPV6B3 variant, presenting the mutation (guanine) G474A (adenine), and one of them also showed the mutation (thymine) T369G. The other 13 patients were positive for HPV6B1 without nucleotide alterations. In the analysis of the HPV11 samples, all patients showed the mutations T137C and (cytosine) C380T. One patient also presented the nucleotide alteration T410C. None of the mutations found in the 32 analyzed samples resulted in amino acid changes. Patient age, local occurrence, and HIV infection did not show significant association with HPV infection. Besides, the data found in this study did not show a relationship with the geographical region of isolation when compared to other data from different regions of the world. In this way, despite the nucleotide alterations found, it was not possible to observe amino acid changes and variants grouping according to geographical region.

Effect of curcumin-nanoemulsion associated with photodynamic therapy in breast adenocarcinoma cell line.

Curcumin, a natural compound has several antineoplastic activities and is a promising natural photosensitizer used in photodynamic therapy. However, its low solubility in physiological medium limit the clinical use of curcumin. This study aimed to analyze the action of curcumin-nanoemulsion, a new and well-designed Drug Delivery System (DDS+) molecule, used as a photosensitizing agent in photodynamic therapy in an in vitro breast cancer model, MCF-7 cells. The empty nanoemulsion fulfils all necessary requirements to be an excellent DDS. Furthermore, the use of curcumin-nanoemulsion in photodynamic therapy resulted in a high phototoxic effect after activation at 440 nm, decreasing to <10% viable tumor cells after two irradiations and increasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The use of curcumin-nanoemulsion associated with photodynamic therapy resulted in an increase in the levels of caspase 3/7 activity for the studied MCF-7 cell model, indicating that this therapy triggers a cascade of events that lead to cell death, such as cellular apoptosis. In conclusion, curcumin-nanoemulsion proved to be efficient as a photosensitizing agent, had phototoxic effects, significantly decreased the proliferation of MCF-7 cells and stimulating the ROS production in combination with photodynamic therapy, so, this formulation has a great potential for use in treatment of breast cancer.

Natural Products Isolated from Oriental Medicinal Herbs Inactivate Zika Virus.

Zika virus (ZIKV) has been associated with serious health conditions, and an intense search to discover different ways to prevent and treat ZIKV infection is underway. Berberine and emodin possess several pharmacological properties and have been shown to be particularly effective against the entry and replication of several viruses. We show that emodin and berberine trigger a virucidal effect on ZIKV. When the virus was exposed to 160 µM of berberine, a reduction of 77.6% in the infectivity was observed; when emodin was used (40 µM), this reduction was approximately 83.3%. Dynamic light scattering data showed that both compounds significantly reduce the hydrodynamic radius of virus particle in solution. We report here that berberine and emodin, two natural compounds, have strong virucidal effect in Zika virus.

Cuidar em Oncologia: Desafios e Superações Cotidianas Vivenciados por Enfermeiros / Caring in Oncology: Challenges and Daily Overcoming Experienced by Nurses / Cuidar en Oncología: Desafíos y Superacciones Cotidianas Vivenciados por Enfermeros

Introdução: O cuidar em Oncologia é algo complexo. Os profissionais que atuam nessa área frequentemente são submetidos a fatores de riscos emocionais, exigindo deles habilidades para lidar com os sentimentos dos outros e com as suas próprias emoções frente ao cuidado oncológico e seus desafios. Objetivo: Compreender a perspectiva de enfermeiros acerca do processo de enfrentamento dos desafios vivenciados no cuidado à pessoa com câncer. Método: Pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, realizada em um hospital oncológico do interior de Minas Gerais, junto a enfermeiros dessa instituição. A coleta de dados foi realizada por um roteiro com perguntas abertas, e se encerrou no momento em que se constatou a saturação dos dados que foram analisados pela técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 13 enfermeiros, cujos depoimentos originaram três categorias: a primeira discorre sobre o cotidiano do enfermeiro na Oncologia, apontando aspectos positivos, negativos e desafios inerentes a essa prática; a segunda categoria sinaliza para as competências atitudinais fundamentais ao processo de cuidado na Oncologia, como empatia, humanização, carinho, acolhimento, maturidade, força e paciência; e a terceira apresenta como superação importante na prática do enfermeiro saber lidar com a questão emocional, além das formas de enfrentamento utilizadas por esse profissional para sustentar suas ações cotidianas. Conclusão: Os resultados apontam que é necessário (re)conduzir um novo olhar à formação de profissionais de saúde, para além das competências técnicas, sinalizando para a relevância da formação centrada em competências humanas e relacionais, indispensáveis ao processo de trabalho no âmbito da Oncologia.

Introduction: Caring in Oncology is quite complex. Professionals working in this area are often subject to emotional risk factors, demanding from them skills to cope with the feelings of the others and with their own emotions in face of the oncologic care and its challenges. Objective: To understand the nurses' perspective about the process of coping with the challenges experienced while caring for the person with cancer. Method: Qualitative study, performed with the nurses of a cancer hospital in the rural area of Minas Gerais. The data were collected through an open questions script and ended when the Content Analysis specialist concluded that the saturation of the data was achieved. Results: Interviews were conducted with thirteen male nurses, whose narratives gave rise to three categories: the first discusses the nurses' daily routine in Oncology, pointing out positive, negative and inherent challenges to this practice; the second category indicates the core attitudinal skills to the oncology caring process, such as empathy, humanization, affection, acceptance, maturity, strength and patience; and the third category describes how the professionals deal with the emotional issue in their practice further to their actions to support their daily routine. Conclusion: The results point out that it is necessary to envisage a new angle about the formation of health professionals further to the technical skills, emphasizing the relevance of focused coaching in human and relational capabilities that are crucial for the work process in Oncology

Introducción: El cuidar en Oncología es algo complejo, estando los profesionales que actúan en esa área frecuentemente sometidos a factores de riesgos emocionales, exigiendo de las mismas habilidades para lidiar con los sentimientos de los demás y con sus propias emociones frente al cuidado oncológico y sus desafíos. Objetivo: Comprender la perspectiva de enfermeros acerca del proceso de enfrentamiento de los desafíos vivenciados en el cuidado a la persona con cáncer. Método: Investigación de naturaleza cualitativa, realizada en un hospital oncológico del interior de Minas Gerais, junto a enfermeros de esta institución. La recolección de datos fue realizada por un guión con preguntas abiertas, y se cerró en el momento en que se constató la saturación de los datos. Los datos fueron analizados por la técnica de Análisis de Contenido. Resultados: Fueron entrevistados trece enfermeros, cuyos testimonios originaron tres categorías: la primera discurre sobre el cotidiano del enfermero en la Oncología, apuntando aspectos positivos, negativos y desafíos inherentes a esta práctica; la segunda categoría señala a las competencias actitudinales fundamentales al proceso de cuidado en la oncología, como empatía, humanización, cariño, acogida, madurez, fuerza y paciencia; y la tercera categoría presenta como superación importante en la práctica del enfermero saber lidiar con la cuestión emocional, además de las formas de enfrentamiento utilizadas por este profesional para sostener sus acciones cotidianas. Conclusión: Los resultados apuntan que es necesario (re) conducir una nueva mirada a la formación de profesionales de salud más allá de las competencias técnicas, señalando para la relevancia de la formación ingresada en competencias humanas y relacionales, indispensables al proceso de trabajo en el ámbito de la Oncología.

Effect of Curcumin-Nanoemulsion Associated with Photodynamic Therapy in Cervical Carcinoma Cell Lines.

Cervical cancer is the fourth cause of cancer death in women. Curcumin has antineoplastic properties. Furthermore, curcumin may be used as a photosensitizing agent in Photodynamic Therapy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Photodynamic Therapy in cellular viability using curcumin-nanoemulsion as a photosensitizing drug in cervical carcinoma cell lines. The empty nanoemulsion presented very low cytotoxicity in all cell lines analyzed. Additionally, the incubation with curcumin-nanoemulsion at 20 µM of curcumin showed more than 80% of cell viability for cell lines. Nanoemulsions were shown to be internalized inside cells by fluorescence microscopy and were observed in the intracellular environment for up to 36 hours after incubation with cell lines. In addition, after the Photodynamic Therapy we observed a high phototoxic effect of the curcumin-nanoemulsion with less than 5% of viable cells after irradiation. This was accompanied by an increase in caspase-3/caspase-7 activities after cell treatment with curcumin-nanoemulsion and Photodynamic Therapy, suggesting cell death by apoptosis. We conclude that the curcumin-nanoemulsion formulation behaves as a photosensitizing drug in Photodynamic Therapy and shows potential as an alternative treatment to cervical lesions using an endoscopic diode fiber laser setup for in situ activation or cavity activation using a diffuse fiber delivery system.

Comparative analysis of germ cells and DNA of the genus Amblyomma: adding new data on Amblyomma maculatum and Amblyomma ovale species (Acari: Ixodidae).

Among tick species, members of the subfamily Amblyomminae have received special attention, since they serve as vectors for pathogens such as Rickettsia spp. and display cryptic species complexes that make their taxonomical classification challenging. Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma maculatum, and other species of the genus Amblyomma have shown a long history of taxonomic controversies. Spermiotaxonomy has proved to be a valuable tool in the solution of systematic conflicts in Metazoa that can aid molecular and external morphological analyses in ticks and, overall, provide more robust analyses and results. With this in mind, this study included histological analyses of the reproductive system of the species A. ovale and A. maculatum, as well as the description of morphohistological characters of the male reproductive system of ticks of the genus Amblyomma, in order to evaluate these characters within the current clustering proposals. In addition, 16S rDNA and COI (mitochondrial) molecular markers were used to study the genetic relationships of the species. The results show that the tick male reproductive system and its germ cells contain useful candidate characters for taxonomical analyses of Ixodida.

Evidence of bottleneck effect on hepatitis C virus transmission between a couple under interferon based therapy.

Issues on the correlation of viral genetic diversity and treatment response to the hepatitis C infection remain uncertain. The bottleneck effect dictates the characteristics of the viral population that will establish the infection in a new host and is related to how the immune system and treatment will be effective against the virus. Here we evaluated the phylogenetic characteristics of quasispecies population and the treatment response pattern of a HCV infected couple. We also analyzed whether the viral population of these patients indicated that they were exposed to the same source for primer infection. This study included two patients (P10 and P11) HCV genotype 1b infected. The couple presented horizontal transmission. Viral RNA was isolated from serum samples collected before, during and after treatment, at specific time points. The HCV NS5A gene sequence was amplified, cloned and sequenced. Genetic and evolutionary analyses were performed to compare the quasispecies population of these two patients and local control patients. Genetic distance and diversity were calculated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed by using maximum likelihood and Bayesian methodologies. The analysis of the baseline samples showed that the genetic distance of the viral populations of patients P10 and P11 was significantly lower than when these patients and the control group based on sequences from local patients were analyzed, supporting the horizontal transmission hypothesis. Phylogenetic analysis with sequences from all the time point samples also demonstrated two patterns of evolution depending on the treatment response. The Bayesian analysis showed that one isolate corresponding to the baseline sample of P10 was grouped into the P11 clade, suggesting a way of infection and a bottleneck effect. Our data suggests that the patient P11 viral population may be originated from variants from P10 patient and consequently showing that clinical differences between treatment responses can emerge from the bottleneck effect on viral populations.

Inadequação nutricional na dieta de atletas adolescentes / Nutritional inadequacy in dietary intake of school athletes

INTRODUÇÃO: Os atletas adolescentes têm uma demanda energética aumentada devido à prática competitiva de exercício físico, apresentando maiores riscos de inadequações nutricionais. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a ingestão alimentar de atletas escolares envolvidos em diferentes modalidades esportivas. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi composta por 129 adolescentes, de ambos os gêneros, praticantes de tênis, natação, ginástica (artística e rítmica) e judô de equipes do município de Aracaju (SE), Brasil. Aplicou-se um questionário de frequência alimentar semiquantitativo, com auxílio de registro fotográfico, para estimar a ingestão de macro e micronutrientes e porções dos grupos alimentares. RESULTADOS: Entre os analisados, 41,2% eram do gênero feminino, com média de idade de 13,54±2,45 anos. Independente do gênero, os adolescentes mais velhos apresentaram maior ingestão energética e de macronutrientes (p<0,05), porém com semelhança na prevalência de inadequação em relação aos mais novos. Com relação aos micronutrientes, a comparação entre os gêneros mostrou maior prevalência de inadequações entre meninas mais novas para vitamina E, cálcio e ferro. Entre os meninos, apenas a inadequação do cálcio foi significativamente maior para os mais novos. Independente do gênero e da idade, observou-se baixa ingestão de lácteos e hortaliças, além do elevado consumo de doces, carnes e ovos. CONCLUSÃO: A dieta dos atletas adolescentes estudados mostrou inadequação de macro e de micronutrientes, especialmente entre as atletas mais novas. Faz-se essencial o desenvolvimento de ações de aconselhamento nutricional individual ou em grupo com vistas a adquirir hábitos alimentares adequados.

INTRODUCTION: Young athletes have an increased energy demand because of the competitive practice of physical exercise, presenting greater risks of nutritional inadequacies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the dietary intake of school athletes who practice different sports by gender and age. METHODS: The sample consisted of 129 adolescents of both genders, who were tennis, swimming, gymnastics (artistic and rhythmic), and judo athletes of sports teams in the city of Aracaju (SE), Brazil. A semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire was applied, which was also supported by a photographic record, to estimate the dietary intake of macro and micronutrients as well as food portions. RESULTS: Among the young athletes analyzed, 41.2% were female with a mean age of 13.54±2.45 years. Regardless of gender, older adolescents had higher energy and macronutrient intakes (p<0.05), but presented similar prevalence of inadequacy in relation to the young. Regarding micronutrients, the comparison between genders showed a higher prevalence of inadequacy among younger girls for vitamin E, calcium and iron. Among boys, only the inadequacy of calcium was significantly higher among the younger athletes. Regardless of gender and age, there was a low intake of dairy products and vegetables and a high consumption of sweets, meats and eggs. CONCLUSION: The diet of adolescent athletes studied showed inadequacy of macro and micronutrients, especially among the younger athletes. It is essential to develop individual or in group nutritional counseling, so that they may acquire proper eating habits.