Correlations between the degree of infection by wild strain of Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and porcine hematological parameters.

The apicomplexa Toxoplasma gondii is capable of actively proliferating in numerous types of nucleated cells, and therefore has a high potential for dissemination and resistance. Thus, the present work aimed to correlate the inoculum concentrations and amount of post-infection parasites with porcine hematological parameters (including biochemistry) through in vitro culture. Porcine blood was incubated with different concentrations of parasites (1.2 × 107, 6/3/1.5 × 106 cells/mL), then the concentrations of red blood cells (RBC) and their morphology, total and differential leukocytes, and free peptides were evaluated. In addition, eight different blood samples analyzed before inoculation, where subsequent multivariate analysis was applied to correlate different variables with trophozoite concentration. The results showed no significant variation (p < 0.05) in the relative levels of free peptides, or the relative percentage of RBC at all the parasite concentrations tested. However, the normalized percentages of leukocytes and neutrophils showed a significant reduction, while those of lymphocytes, eosinophils and monocytes showed the opposite behavior. Semi-automatic processing of images exhibited significant microcytosis and hypochromia. The multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between the amount number of protozoa (AP) and the variables: "Red cells" and "Neutrophils", an indifference between the AP and the content of free peptides, and the concentration of monocytes in the samples; and a negative correlation for AP and the percentages of lymphocytes and eosinophils. Our results suggest that specific changes in hematological parameters may be associated with different degrees of parasitemia, demanding a thorough diagnostic process and adequate treatment.

Corrigendum: Random cellulose acetate nanofibers: a breakthrough for cultivated meat production.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1297926.].

Randomized self-controlled study comparing open-face vs. closed immobilization masks in fractionated cranial radiotherapy.

PURPOSE: To compare patient discomfort and immobilisation performance of open-face and closed immobilization masks in cranial radiotherapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a single-center randomized self-controlled clinical trial. At CT simulation, an open-face and closed mask was made for each patient and treatment plans with identical dose prescription were generated for each mask. Patients were randomised to start treatment with an open-face or closed mask. Masks were switched halfway through the treatment course; every patient was their own control. Patients self-reported discomfort, anxiety and pain using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Inter- and intrafraction set-up variability was measured with planar kV imaging and a surface guided radiotherapy (SGRT) system for the open-face masks. RESULTS: 30 patients with primary or metastatic brain tumors were randomized - 29 completed radiotherapy to a median total dose of 54 Gy (range 30-60 Gy). Mean discomfort VAS score was significantly lower with open-face masks (0.5, standard deviation 1.0) vs. closed masks (3.3, standard deviation 2.9), P < 0.0001. Anxiety and pain VAS scores were significantly lower with open-face masks (P < 0.0001). Closed masks caused more discomfort in infraorbital (P < 0.001) and maxillary (P = 0.02) areas. Two patients and 27 patients preferred closed or open-face masks, respectively. Interfraction longitudinal shifts and roll and yaw rotations were significantly smaller and lateral shifts were significantly larger with closed masks in combination with the laser system (P < 0.05) compared to open masks in combination with a SGRT system. Intrafraction variability did not differ between the masks. CONCLUSIONS: Open-face masks are associated with decreased patient discomfort without compromising patient positioning and immobilisation accuracy.

Prospective evaluation of patient-reported anxiety and experiences with adaptive radiation therapy on an MR-linac.

Purpose: An integrated magnetic resonance scanner and linear accelerator (MR-linac) was implemented with daily online adaptive radiation therapy (ART). This study evaluated patient-reported experiences with their overall hospital care as well as treatment in the MR-linac environment. Methods: Patients pre-screened for MR eligibility and claustrophobia were referred to simulation on a 1.5 T MR-linac. Patient-reported experience measures were captured using two validated surveys. The 15-item MR-anxiety questionnaire (MR-AQ) was administered immediately after the first treatment to rate MR-related anxiety and relaxation. The 40-item satisfaction with cancer care questionnaire rating doctors, radiation therapists, the services and care organization and their outpatient experience was administered immediately after the last treatment using five-point Likert responses. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 205 patients were included in this analysis. Multiple sites were treated across the pelvis and abdomen with a median treatment time per fraction of 46 and 66 min respectively. Patients rated MR-related anxiety as "not at all" (87%), "somewhat" (11%), "moderately" (1%) and "very much so" (1%). Positive satisfaction responses ranged from 78 to 100% (median 93%) across all items. All radiation therapist-specific items were rated positively as 96-100%. The five lowest rated items (range 78-85%) were related to general provision of information, coordination, and communication. Overall hospital care was rated positively at 99%. Conclusion: In this large, single-institution prospective cohort, all patients had low MR-related anxiety and completed treatment as planned despite lengthy ART treatments with the MR-linac. Patients overall were highly satisfied with their cancer care involving ART using an MR-linac.

Response to carvacrol monoterpene in the emergence of Allium cepa L. seeds exposed to salt stress.

Abiotic stresses including sodium chloride (NaCl) are known to negatively affect plant physiology and seed germination by inducing a delay in establishing seedling emergence. The monoterpene carvacrol is the major component of several aromatic plants and seems to interfere with germination and seedling growth. In this study, we investigated whether treatment with carvacrol attenuates the effects of NaCl on the germination and development of Allium cepa, where biochemical parameters were also analyzed. The results showed that the Emergency Speed Index (ESI) was near to 2.0 in the control group. The groups NaCl, carvacrol alone, and in co-treatment with NaCl exhibited an ESI below 0.8, being significantly smaller when compared to the control. NaCl + carvacrol significantly inhibited seed emergence in relation to the NaCl group. Only the content of malondialdehyde was significantly altered by NaCl.

An unusual presentation of low QRS voltage in a patient with aortic aneurysm.

There are many causes of low QRS voltage on the electrocardiogram (ECG). Although uncommon, there is evidence that an enlarged aorta can cause diminished QRS amplitude on ECG. In this case report, we describe an unusual presentation of low QRS voltage confined to the first three precordial leads (V1-V3) in a 77-year-old female with ascending aortic aneurysm. Analysis of the patient's medical history, echocardiogram and contrast-enhanced computed tomography indicates that the ECG pattern was caused by interposition of the aortic aneurysm between the heart and the skin electrodes (V1-V3), revealing a possible indirect sign for large aortic aneurysm on ECG.

Intra- and inter-fraction breath-hold variations and margins for radiotherapy of abdominal targets.

Radiotherapy in expiration breath-hold (EBH) has the potential to reduce treatment volumes of abdominal targets compared to an internal target volume concept in free-breathing. The reproducibility of EBH and required safety margins were investigated to quantify this volumetric benefit. Pre- and post-treatment diaphragm position difference and the positioning variability were determined on computed tomography. Systematic and random errors for EBH position reproducibility and positioning variability were calculated, resulting in margins of 7 to 12 mm depending on the prescription isodose and fractionation. A reduced volume was shown for EBH for lesions with superior-inferior breathing motion above 4 to 8 mm.

Acute Exposure to Two Biocides Causes Morphological and Molecular Changes in the Gill Ciliary Epithelium of the Invasive Golden Mussel Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857).

Limnoperna fortunei, the golden mussel, is a bivalve mollusk considered an invader in South America. This species is responsible for ecological and economic damages due to its voluminous fouling capability. Chemical biocides such as MXD-100™ and sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) are often used to control L. fortunei infestations in hydraulic systems. Thus, we proposed to investigate the effects of different periods (24, 48 and 72 h) of exposure to MXD-100™ (0.56 mg L-1) and NaDCC (1.5 mg L-1) on the gills of L. fortunei through morphological and molecular analyses. NaDCC promoted progressive morphological changes during the analyzed periods and only an upregulation of SOD and HSP70 expression during the first 24 h of exposure. MXD-100™ led to severe morphological changes from the first period of exposure, in addition to an upregulation of SOD, CAT, HSP70 and CYP expression during the first 24 h. In contrast, MXD-100™ led to a downregulation of CAT transcription between 24 and 48 h. In static conditions, NaDCC causes lethal damage after 72 h of exposure, and that exposure needs to be continuous to achieve the control of the species. Meanwhile, the MXD-100™ treatment presented several effects during the first 24 h, showing acute toxicity in a shorter period of time.

Functional outcomes and satisfaction rates of sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of one and multiples pelvic floor dysfunctions

Objective: Few studies have addressed the use of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in the treatment of patients with multiple pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD). So, we evaluated the functional outcomes and level of satisfaction with SNS in selected patients with one or multiples PFD. Methods: A prospective database was used to collect information on eligible patients treated for PFD with SNS, and severity of symptoms was assessed with scores and satisfaction rates by visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline and by the end of follow-up. Results: We recruited 70 patients, 98.6% of whom responded positively during the evaluation period (Global Response Assessment ≥ 50% for at least one type of PFD), resulting in the implantation of a permanent SNS device. Additionally, 49 of the patients (71%) had a single PFD (fecal incontinence [FI] = 38; constipation/obstructed defecation syndrome [C/ODS] = 11), while 20 (29%) had more than one PFD (double incontinence/n = 12; double incontinence + C/ODS/n = 8). All scores improved significantly between baseline (pre-SNS) and the end of follow-up (post-SNS), as did VAS in all groups (single and multiple PFD). The pre-SNS scores were higher in patients with a single PFD, including FI (Cleveland clinic Florida incontinence score [CCF-FI]) and C/ODS (Cleveland clinic constipation score [C-CCF] and the Renzi ODS score). The pre-SNS impact of VAS scores was similar in all groups (single and multiple PFD), but the VAS (post-SNS) was significantly lower (better response) for FI alone compared with multiple PFD. Conclusion: The SNS technique is an effective and safe option for patients with one or more PFD refractory to conservative measures. Response was positive for at least two PFD, based on reduced correspondent scores and satisfaction rate. (AU)

Prevalência e severidade de sintomas em mulheres na menopausa: um estudo descritivo / Prevalence and severity of symptoms in women in the menopause: a cross-sectional study

Introdução: Muitas mulheres sofrem com sintomas associados à menopausa, que podem apresentar diferentes graus de intensidade e afetar sua qualidade de vida. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e severidade dos principais sintomas nas diferentes fases do climatério. Métodos: Foram selecionadas mulheres com idades entre 40 e 65 anos, que responderam a um questionário on-line com dados sociodemográficos, de saúde, alimentação e características menstruais e de menopausa. Para avaliar os sintomas da menopausa e sua intensidade, foi aplicado o questionário internacional validado Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). Resultados: Foram incluídas 283 mulheres (36,8% na pré-menopausa, 24% na perimenopausa e 39,2% na pós-menopausa). Excesso de peso foi mais prevalente na perimenopausa do que na pré-menopausa (P=0,012). Sintomas como diminuição da libido, secura vaginal, incontinência urinária, dores musculares e articulares, alterações lipídicas e ondas de calor, calorões, foram mais prevalentes em valores absolutos nas mulheres pós-menopausa. As mulheres no período de perimenopausa apresentaram maior prevalência, em valores absolutos, de estresse, irritabilidade, dor de cabeça, problemas na pele, falta de concentração/memória, distúrbios do sono e fadiga. De acordo com o MRS, não houve diferença no domínio psicossocial (P=0,265) e os sintomas somato-vegetativos e urogenitais são mais intensos nas mulheres na perimenopausa e pós-menopausa, quando comparadas com as mulheres na pré-menopausa (P<0,001). O escore global do questionário também demonstra essa intensidade menor no grupo pré-menopausa (P=0,001). Conclusões: Este estudo demonstrou uma prevalência e severidade maior de sintomas em mulheres na perimenopausa e pós-menopausa, o que pode prejudicar a qualidade de vida dessas mulheres nessa fase da vida

Introduction: Many women experience symptoms associated with menopause that present with different degrees of intensity and affect their quality of life. Objective: To identify the prevalence and severity of the main symptoms during different climacteric phases. Methods: Women aged 40­65 years answered an online questionnaire on sociodemographic data, health, diet, menstrual, and menopausal characteristics. The internationally validated Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) questionnaire was used to assess menopausal symptoms and their intensities. Results: 283 women were included (36.8% pre-menopausal, 24% peri-menopausal, and 39.2% post-menopausal). Excess weight was more prevalent in the peri-menopausal group than in the pre-menopausal group (P=0.012). Symptoms such as decreased libido, vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, muscle and joint pain, lipid alterations, and hot flashes were more prevalent in the absolute values of post-menopausal women. Women in the peri-menopausal period had a higher prevalence, in absolute values, of stress, irritability, headache, skin problems, lack of concentration/memory, sleep disorders, and fatigue. According to the MRS, there was no difference in the psychosocial domain (P=0.265) but somato-vegetative and urogenital symptoms are more intense in peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women when compared to pre-menopausal women (P<0.001). The global score on the questionnaire also demonstrated a lower intensity in the pre-menopausal group's symptoms (P=0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrated a higher prevalence and severity of symptoms in peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women, which may impair the quality of life of these women at this stage of life.

Random cellulose acetate nanofibers: a breakthrough for cultivated meat production.

Overcoming the challenge of creating thick, tissue-resembling muscle constructs is paramount in the field of cultivated meat production. This study investigates the remarkable potential of random cellulose acetate nanofibers (CAN) as a transformative scaffold for muscle tissue engineering (MTE), specifically in the context of cultivated meat applications. Through a comparative analysis between random and aligned CAN, utilizing C2C12 and H9c2 myoblasts, we unveil the unparalleled capabilities of random CAN in facilitating muscle differentiation, independent of differentiation media, by exploiting the YAP/TAZ-related mechanotransduction pathway. In addition, we have successfully developed a novel process for stacking cell-loaded CAN sheets, enabling the production of a three-dimensional meat product. C2C12 and H9c2 loaded CAN sheets were stacked (up to four layers) to form a ~300-400 µm thick tissue 2 cm in length, organized in a mesh of uniaxial aligned cells. To further demonstrate the effectiveness of this methodology for cultivated meat purposes, we have generated thick and viable constructs using chicken muscle satellite cells (cSCs) and random CAN. This groundbreaking discovery offers a cost-effective and biomimetic solution for cultivating and differentiating muscle cells, forging a crucial link between tissue engineering and the pursuit of sustainable and affordable cultivated meat production.

Morganella sp. infection in scent gland of corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) - case report / Infecção por Morganella sp. em glândula de cheiro de corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) - relato de caso

The corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a non-venomous snake from the Colubridae family. The pair of scent glands is indispensable in the physiology of reproduction and defense of the species. This structure is located caudal to the cloaca. It is responsible for releasing a thick material based on lipids containing pheromones that perform functions associated with animal behavior and survival. This work aims to report infection by Morganella sp. in a scent gland in a female corn snake, evidencing the diagnosis and treatment. An increase in volume was seen in the final third, proximal to the cloaca, firm consistency, immobile, and approximately 4 cm long and painful to touch. Samples of the material were collected for bacterial culture and antibiogram examination, being positive for bacteria of the genus Morganella. Based on the result of the antibiogram, it was possible to determine the most appropriate therapeutic protocol, with the referral to perform the surgical procedure to remove the tissue compromised by the infection, remaining stable until the removal of the stitches 40 days after the procedure, with total surgical wound healing.(AU)

A corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) é uma serpente não peçonhenta, da família Colubridae. Na fisiologia da reprodução e defesa da espécie, o par de glândulas de cheiro é indispensável. Essa estrutura está localizada caudal à cloaca e é responsável pela liberação de um material espesso à base de lipídeos, contendo feromônios que exercem funções associadas ao comportamento animal e à sua sobrevivência. O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar uma infecção por Morganella sp. em glândula de cheiro em uma fêmea de corn snake, evidenciando o diagnóstico e tratamento. Observou-se um aumento de volume no terço final, proximal a cloaca, de consistência firme, imóvel e com aproximadamente 4 cm de comprimento e sensibilidade dolorosa ao toque. Foram coletadas amostras do material para cultura bacteriana e exame de antibiograma, sendo positivo para bactérias do gênero Morganella. Com base no resultado do antibiograma, foi possível determinar o protocolo terapêutico mais adequado, como o encaminhamento para realização do procedimento cirúrgico para remoção do tecido comprometido pela infecção, se mantendo estável até a remoção dos pontos, 40 dias após o procedimento, com total cicatrização da ferida cirúrgica.(AU)

People with amputation and musculoskeletal pain show reduced electrical activity of Alpha brain waves: cross-sectional study / Pessoas com amputação e relato de dor musculoesquelética apresentam redução da atividade elétrica das ondas cerebrais Alpha: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Amputation causes associated clinical conditions, such as musculoskeletal pain (MSP), which causes sufering and interferes in the patient's life. Therefore, the development of diagnostic methods to measure these changes are encouraged, such as quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG). The aim of the study was to compare the electroencephalographic pattern of Alpha brain waves (8-12 Hz) in individuals with amputation with MSP unrelated to phantom limb pain and without MSP. METHODS: Study conducted between January and February 2022, with 20 people with amputations divided equally into two groups (Control Group and with MSP report not related to the amputated segment). Pain intensity and interference were evaluated (Brief Pain Inventory), as well as the presence of central sensitization (CS) signs and symptoms (CS inventory) and qEEG (assessed with eyes open) with spectral analysis to measure the amplitude of the Alpha wave, standardized Low Resolution brain electromagnetic Tomography (sLORETA) to identify the differential generation site of said wave and Phase-Amplitude Coupling (PAC) to identify its interaction with fast waves. RESULTS: People with amputation and MSP reported mild pain severity and interference. No diference was identifed between individuals regarding the presence of signs and symptoms associated with CS. Regarding electrical activity, the Pain Group had lower Alpha wave amplitude compared to the Control Group (p=0.01), specifically in the parieto-occipital region. CONCLUSION: People with amputation and reported MSP unrelated to the phantom limb had reduced electrical activity (activation) of the Alpha brain wave in the sensory cortex.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A amputação acarreta quadros clínicos associados, como a dor musculoesquelética (DME), que causa sofrimento e interfere na vida do paciente. Por isso, o desenvolvimento de métodos diagnósticos para mensurar essas alterações são incentivados, como a eletroencefalografia quantitativa (EEGq). O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o padrão eletroencefalográfico das ondas cerebrais Alpha (8-12 Hz) em pessoas com amputação com DME não relacionada à dor no membro fantasma e sem DME. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado entre janeiro e fevereiro de 2022, com 20 pessoas com amputação divididas igualmente em dois grupos (Grupo Controle e Grupo com relato de DME não relacionada ao segmento amputado). Avaliou-se intensidade e interferência da dor (Inventário Breve de Dor), presença de sinais e sintomas de sensibilização central (SC) (Inventário de SC) e a EEGq (avaliados com olhos abertos) com análise espectral para medir a amplitude da onda Alpha, standardized Low Resolution brain electromagnetic Tomography (sLORETA) para identificar o local de geração diferencial da referida onda e Phase-Amplitude Coupling (PAC) para identificar sua interação com ondas rápidas. RESULTADOS: As pessoas com amputação e relato de DME apresentaram baixa gravidade e interferência de dor. Não se identificou diferença entre os indivíduos em relação a presença de sinais e sintomas associados à SC. Quanto à atividade elétrica, o Grupo Dor apresentou menor amplitude da onda Alpha em relação ao Grupo Controle (p=0,01), especificamente na região parieto-occipital. CONCLUSÃO: Pessoas com amputação e relato de DME não relacionada ao membro fantasma apresentaram atividade elétrica (ativação) reduzida da onda cerebral Alpha no córtex sensorial.

Ultrastructure of the gill ciliary epithelium of Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1857), the invasive golden mussel.

BACKGROUND: Limnoperna fortunei is a freshwater bivalve mollusc originally from southern Asia that invaded South America in the 1990's. Due to its highly efficient water pumping and filtering, and its capacity to form strong adhesions to a variety of substrates by byssus thread, this invasive species has been able to adapt to several environments across South America, causing significant ecological and economic damages. By gaining a deeper understanding of the biological and ecological aspects of L. fortunei we will be able to establish more effective strategies to manage its invasion. The gills of the mollusc are key structures responsible for several biological functions, including respiration and feeding. In this work, we characterized the ultrastructure of L. fortunei gills and its ciliary epithelium using light microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopies. This is the first report of the morphology of the epithelial cells and cilia of the gill of L. fortunei visualized in high resolution. RESULTS: The analysis showed highly organized and abundant ciliary structures (lateral cilia, laterofrontal cirri and frontal cilia) on the entire length of the branchial epithelium. Mitochondria, smooth endoplasmic reticulum and glycogen granules were abundantly found in the epithelial cells of the gills, demonstrating the energy-demanding function of these structures. Neutral mucopolysaccharides (low viscosity mucus) were observed on the frontal surface of the gill filaments and acid mucopolysaccharides (high viscosity mucus) were observed to be spread out, mainly on the lateral tract. Spherical vesicles, possibly containing mucus, could also be observed in these cells. These findings demonstrate the importance of the mucociliary processes in particle capture and selection. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the mechanism used by this mollusc for particle capture and selection could contribute to a better understanding of key aspects of invasion and also in the establishment of more efficient and economically viable strategies of population control.

[The present and future of precarious work for app-based workers]. / O presente e o futuro do trabalho precarizado dos trabalhadores por aplicativo.

In the struggle for survival, millions of people submit to deregulated and informal work. Taking advantage of this, app-based companies have attracted growing numbers of workers under the fallacy of entrepreneurship. The current study aimed to describe the biosocial profile of these workers, the work process, and forms of company control, besides analyzing the principal and emerging aspects in the respective participants. This is a scoping study in which data collection was oriented by the question, "What has been produced in the scientific literature on the profile and risks of app-based work?" from 2014 to 2020. Content analysis revealed thematic dimensions: the growth of apps in Brazil and worker relations; the profile of app-based workers; and their work exposure and demands for working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The professional dynamic of app-based workers is marked by subordination, domination, and exhaustion. The fact that their employment relationship is not acknowledged does not deprive them of rights, dignity, and quality of life in the workplace. Spontaneous organization without trade union intermediation in this category of workers, backing a common agenda of demands to be discussed with other representatives of society, denotes the high degree of exploitation and precariousness and could suggest the path for app companies to adopt the principles of dignified, decent work.

Na luta pela sobrevivência milhões de pessoas se submetem ao trabalho desregulamentado e informal. Servindo-se disso, as empresas por aplicativos atraem cada vez mais trabalhadores sob a falácia do empreendedorismo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever o perfil biossocial destes trabalhadores, o processo de trabalho, as formas de controle das empresas e analisar os aspectos principais e emergentes entre as partes envolvidas. Trata-se de um estudo de escopo cujo processo de coleta do material foi norteado pelo questionamento: "O que se tem produzido na literatura científica sobre o perfil e os riscos no trabalho de aplicativos?", entre os anos de 2014 e 2020. A análise dos conteúdos deu origem a três eixos temáticos: O crescimento dos aplicativos no Brasil e a relação com o trabalhador; o perfil dos trabalhadores de aplicativos e sua exposição laboral, além de suas reivindicações de condições de trabalho diante da pandemia da COVID-19. A dinâmica profissional dos trabalhadores por aplicativo é marcada pela sujeição, dominação e desgaste. A falta de reconhecimento do vínculo empregatício não os faz sujeitos desprovidos de direitos, dignidade e qualidade de vida no ambiente de trabalho. A organização espontânea e sem intermediação sindical desta categoria de trabalhadores, em torno de uma pauta comum de reivindicações a ser discutida com os demais representantes da sociedade, denota o elevado grau de exploração e precarização, e poderá ser o caminho para que as empresas de aplicativos adotem premissas do trabalho digno e decente.

En su lucha por sobrevivir millones de personas están sometidas al trabajo irregular e informal. Sirviéndose de esto, las empresas mediante aplicaciones atraen cada vez más trabajadores bajo la falacia del emprendimiento. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo describir el perfil biosocial de estos trabajadores, su proceso laboral, formas de control de las empresas, así como analizar los aspectos principales y emergentes entre las partes implicadas. Se trata de un estudio de alcance, cuyo proceso de recogida de material se guio por la pregunta: "¿qué se ha producido en la literatura científica sobre el perfil y riesgos en el trabajo de aplicacciones?" entre los años 2014 y 2020. El análisis de los contenidos dio origen a tres ejes temáticos: crecimiento de las aplicaciones en Brasil y su relación con el trabajador; perfil de los trabajadores de aplicaciones y su exposición laboral, y sus reivindicaciones de condiciones de trabajo ante la pandemia de COVID-19. La dinámica profesional de los trabajadores por aplicaciones está marcada por la subordinación, dominación y desgaste. La falta de reconocimiento del vínculo laboral no se debe traducir en convertirlos en sujetos desprovistos de derechos, dignidad y calidad de vida en el ambiente de trabajo. La organización espontánea y sin intermediación sindical de esta categoría de trabajadores gira en torno a una pauta común de reivindicaciones, que debe ser discutida con los demás representantes de la sociedad. Esto denota su elevado grado de explotación y precarización, además podrá ser el camino para que las empresas de aplicaciones adopten premisas de trabajo digno y decente.

Therapeutic outcomes of pemphigus in a referral service in Northern Brazil: a retrospective study of 32 patients.

BACKGROUND: Pemphigus are rare chronic autoimmune blistering disorders with challenging therapeutic management. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the therapeutic outcomes of pemphigus patients admitted to a dermatology referral service in northern Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 32 patients with histopathological diagnosis of pemphigus between 2010 and 2016. Clinical and epidemiological data were collected. Therapeutic outcome was evaluated according to the criteria proposed by the International Pemphigus Committee. Pemphigus Disease Area Index (PDAI) was used to quantify disease severity. RESULTS: Of the 32 patients, 68.75% had pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and 31.25% had pemphigus foliaceus (PF). Female-to-male ratio was 1:1. The average age was 49.5 years. All patients received oral prednisone as the first-line therapy. Adjuvant immunosuppressive drugs were gradually added in refractory and/or severe cases. After 24 months of treatment, disease control and complete remission rates were 37.5% and 25%, respectively. The mortality rate was 9.37%. PDAI score was significantly lower at 24 months of therapeutic follow-up (p < .0001). CONCLUSION: Therapeutic management with corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive drugs was able to induce disease control/complete remission in most of patients. PDAI was a useful tool for objective assessment of disease severity during therapeutic follow-up.

Hesperidin protects against behavioral alterations and loss of dopaminergic neurons in 6-OHDA-lesioned mice: the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis.

Hesperidin is a flavonoid glycoside that is frequently found in citrus fruits. Our group have demonstrated that hesperidin has neuroprotective effect in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson's disease (PD), mainly by antioxidant mechanisms. Although the pathophysiology of PD remains uncertain, a large body of evidence has demonstrated that mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis play a critical role in dopaminergic nigrostriatal degeneration. However, the ability of hesperidin in modulating these mechanisms has not yet been investigated. In the present study, we examined the potential of a 28-day hesperidin treatment (50 mg/kg/day, p.o.) in preventing behavioral alterations induced by 6-OHDA injection via regulating mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis and dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) in C57BL/6 mice. Our results demonstrated that hesperidin treatment improved motor, olfactory and spatial memory impairments elicited by 6-OHDA injection. Moreover, hesperidin treatment attenuated the loss of dopaminergic neurons (TH+ cells) in the SNpc and the depletion of dopamine (DA) and its metabolities 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in the striatum of 6-OHDA-lesioned mice. Hesperidin also protected against the inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex-I, -IV and V, the decrease of Na + -K + -ATPase activity and the increase of caspase-3 and -9 activity in the striatum. Taken together, our findings indicate that hesperidin mitigates the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction and modulating apoptotic pathways in the striatum of 6-OHDA-treated mice, thus improving behavioral alterations. These results provide new insights on neuroprotective mechanisms of hesperidin in a relevant preclinical model of PD.

O presente e o futuro do trabalho precarizado dos trabalhadores por aplicativo / The present and future of precarious work for app-based workers / Presente y futuro del trabajo precarizado en trabajadores de aplicaciones

Resumo: Na luta pela sobrevivência milhões de pessoas se submetem ao trabalho desregulamentado e informal. Servindo-se disso, as empresas por aplicativos atraem cada vez mais trabalhadores sob a falácia do empreendedorismo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever o perfil biossocial destes trabalhadores, o processo de trabalho, as formas de controle das empresas e analisar os aspectos principais e emergentes entre as partes envolvidas. Trata-se de um estudo de escopo cujo processo de coleta do material foi norteado pelo questionamento: "O que se tem produzido na literatura científica sobre o perfil e os riscos no trabalho de aplicativos?", entre os anos de 2014 e 2020. A análise dos conteúdos deu origem a três eixos temáticos: O crescimento dos aplicativos no Brasil e a relação com o trabalhador; o perfil dos trabalhadores de aplicativos e sua exposição laboral, além de suas reivindicações de condições de trabalho diante da pandemia da COVID-19. A dinâmica profissional dos trabalhadores por aplicativo é marcada pela sujeição, dominação e desgaste. A falta de reconhecimento do vínculo empregatício não os faz sujeitos desprovidos de direitos, dignidade e qualidade de vida no ambiente de trabalho. A organização espontânea e sem intermediação sindical desta categoria de trabalhadores, em torno de uma pauta comum de reivindicações a ser discutida com os demais representantes da sociedade, denota o elevado grau de exploração e precarização, e poderá ser o caminho para que as empresas de aplicativos adotem premissas do trabalho digno e decente.

Abstract: In the struggle for survival, millions of people submit to deregulated and informal work. Taking advantage of this, app-based companies have attracted growing numbers of workers under the fallacy of entrepreneurship. The current study aimed to describe the biosocial profile of these workers, the work process, and forms of company control, besides analyzing the principal and emerging aspects in the respective participants. This is a scoping study in which data collection was oriented by the question, "What has been produced in the scientific literature on the profile and risks of app-based work?" from 2014 to 2020. Content analysis revealed thematic dimensions: the growth of apps in Brazil and worker relations; the profile of app-based workers; and their work exposure and demands for working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The professional dynamic of app-based workers is marked by subordination, domination, and exhaustion. The fact that their employment relationship is not acknowledged does not deprive them of rights, dignity, and quality of life in the workplace. Spontaneous organization without trade union intermediation in this category of workers, backing a common agenda of demands to be discussed with other representatives of society, denotes the high degree of exploitation and precariousness and could suggest the path for app companies to adopt the principles of dignified, decent work.

Resumen: En su lucha por sobrevivir millones de personas están sometidas al trabajo irregular e informal. Sirviéndose de esto, las empresas mediante aplicaciones atraen cada vez más trabajadores bajo la falacia del emprendimiento. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo describir el perfil biosocial de estos trabajadores, su proceso laboral, formas de control de las empresas, así como analizar los aspectos principales y emergentes entre las partes implicadas. Se trata de un estudio de alcance, cuyo proceso de recogida de material se guio por la pregunta: "¿qué se ha producido en la literatura científica sobre el perfil y riesgos en el trabajo de aplicacciones?" entre los años 2014 y 2020. El análisis de los contenidos dio origen a tres ejes temáticos: crecimiento de las aplicaciones en Brasil y su relación con el trabajador; perfil de los trabajadores de aplicaciones y su exposición laboral, y sus reivindicaciones de condiciones de trabajo ante la pandemia de COVID-19. La dinámica profesional de los trabajadores por aplicaciones está marcada por la subordinación, dominación y desgaste. La falta de reconocimiento del vínculo laboral no se debe traducir en convertirlos en sujetos desprovistos de derechos, dignidad y calidad de vida en el ambiente de trabajo. La organización espontánea y sin intermediación sindical de esta categoría de trabajadores gira en torno a una pauta común de reivindicaciones, que debe ser discutida con los demás representantes de la sociedad. Esto denota su elevado grado de explotación y precarización, además podrá ser el camino para que las empresas de aplicaciones adopten premisas de trabajo digno y decente.