Follicle-stimulating hormone mediates the consumption of serum-derived glycogen by bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes during in vitro maturation.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) is an appealing approach for several assisted reproductive technologies and dissecting oocyte maturation. Nonetheless, IVM leads to lower developmental competence and usually relies on undefined, serum-containing media. Therefore, biochemical profiling aimed to explore fluctuations in IVM media content during the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) underwent IVM in TCM199 medium with Earle's salts, supplemented with 2.0 mM L-glutamine, 10% fetal bovine serum, antibiotics, and 0.05 IU/mL porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH+) or vehicle control (CTL) medium for 22 h. RESULTS: FSH withdrawal (CTL) diminished several processes associated with the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence, such as reduced cumulus cell expansion, diminished estradiol synthesis (FSH+: 116.0±0.0 pg/mL vs. CTL: 97.6±18.0 pg/mL), and lower oocyte nuclear maturation rate (FSH+: 96.47% vs. CTL: 88.76%). Fresh media formulations (i.e., TCM199 with FSH or vehicle) were indistinguishable under biochemical profiling threshold conditions. Biochemical profiling showed similar total protein and lipid concentrations between groups. Further, total sugar concentrations diminished from fresh media to their post-IVM counterparts, albeit in an FSH-independent manner. Glycogen concentrations remained unaltered after IVM within CTL media, albeit were substantially lower after IVM under FSH+ conditions. CONCLUSION: FSH mediates the consumption of serum-derived glycogen by bovine COCs during IVM and implies that serum-free media should contain increased glucose concentrations to facilitate the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence.

Effects of aerobic exercise on molecular aspects of asthma: involvement of SOCS-JAK-STAT.

BACKGROUND: Aerobic training (AT) decreases airway inflammation in asthma, but the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. Thus, this study evaluated the participation of SOCS-JAK-STAT signaling in the effects of AT on airway inflammation, remodeling and hyperresponsiveness in a model of allergic airway inflammation. METHODS: C57Bl/6 mice were divided into Control (Co), Exercise (Ex), HDM (HDM), and HDM+Exercise (HDM+ Ex). Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (100ug/mouse) were administered oro-tracheally on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49. AT was performed in a treadmill during 4 weeks in moderate intensity, from day 24 until day 52. RESULTS: AT inhibited HDM-induced total cells (p<0.001), eosinophils (p<0.01), neutrophils (p<0.01) and lymphocytes (p<0.01) in BAL, and eosinophils (p<0.01), neutrophils (p<0.01) and lymphocytes (p<0.01) in peribronchial space. AT also reduced BAL levels of IL-4 (p<0.001), IL-5 (p<0.001), IL-13 (p<0.001), CXCL1 (p<0.01), IL-17 (p<0.01), IL-23 (p<0.05), IL-33 (p<0.05), while increased IL- 10 (p<0.05). Airway collagen fibers (p<0.01), elastic fibers p<0.01) and mucin (p<0.01) were also reduced by AT. AT also inhibited HDM-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to methacholine 6,25mg/ml (p<0.01), 12,5mg/mL (p<0.01), 25mg/mL (p<0.01) and 50mg/mL (p<0.01). Mechanistically, AT reduced the expression of STAT6 (p<0.05), STAT3 (p<0.001), STAT5 (p<0.01) and JAK2 (p<0.001), similarly by peribronchial leukocytes and by airway epithelial cells. SOCS1 expression (p<0.001) was upregulated in leukocytes and in epithelial cells, SOCS2 (p<0.01) was upregulated in leukocytes and SOCS3 down-regulated in leukocytes (p<0.05) and in epithelial cells (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: AT reduces asthma phenotype involving SOCSJAK- STAT signaling.

Ocorrência e fatores de risco da infecção pelo vírus da língua azul em bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco / Occurrence and risk factors of the Bluetongue Virus infeccion in cattle in Pernambuco state, Brazil

Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar os aspectos epidemiológicos da infecção pelo Vírus da Língua Azul (VLA) em bovinos leiteiros na microrregião de Garanhuns, Estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram coletadas 384 amostras de soro de bovinos fêmeas em idade reprodutiva, procedentes de 20 propriedades dos 19 municípios que compõem a região. As amostras foram testadas com a prova de imunodifusão em gel de agarose (IDGA) para pesquisa de anticorpos anti-VLA. Observou-se ocorrência de 71,3% (274/384; IC 95% - 66,5% - 75,7%) de animais positivos. Em 100% das propriedades houve ao menos um animal soropositivo. Os fatores de risco identificados foram: presença de áreas alagadas (OR=11,8; p=0,001), não realizar controle de insetos (OR=2,1; p=0,033), rebanho aberto (OR=2,1; p=0,001) e utilização de inseminação artificial (OR=8,8; p=0,003). Este é o primeiro registro de detecção de anticorpos anti-VLA em bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Conclui-se que a infecção pelo VLA ocorre em bovinos na área estudada e sugere-se que medidas de controle baseadas no manejo higiênico-sanitário e biosseguridade sejam implantadas para evitar a propagação do vírus, tais como: eliminação de áreas alagadiças; controle de insetos; utilizar sêmen na inseminação artificial com atestado sanitário; realizar exames sorológicos ao adquirir animais.(AU)

The objective of this study was to determine epidemiological aspects of Bluetongue Virus (BTV) infection on dairy cattle in the Garanhuns microregion, Pernambuco state, Brazil. Three hundred eighty-four (384) serum samples of female bovines of reproductive age were collected from 20 farms of the 19 municipalities that make up the region. Samples were tested with the agarose gel immunodiffusion test (AGID) for anti-VLA antibody screening. There were 71.3% (274/384, 95% CI - 66.5% - 75.7%) positive animals. In 100% of the farms there was at least one seropositive animal. The risk factors identified were: presence of flooded areas (OR=11.8, p=0.001), absence of insect control (OR=2.1, p=0.033), open herd (OR=2.1; p=0.001) and use of artificial insemination (OR=8.8, p=0.003). This is the first record of detection of anti-BTV antibodies in cattle in Pernambuco state. It is concluded that BTV infection occurs in cattle in the studied area, and it is suggested that control measures based on hygienic-sanitary management and biosecurity are in place to prevent the spread of the virus, such as elimination of wetlands; Insect control; semen used in artificial insemination with health certificate; Serological tests when acquiring animals.(AU)

Incidence and vertical transmission rate of Neospora caninum in sheep.

The infection by Neospora caninum in sheep can lead to abortion and the birth of weak and debilitated lambs. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of natural infection by Neospora caninum and the vertical transmission rate among sheep. A flock of 50 sheep was monitored for serum antibody titres against N. caninum and seroconversion over a period of six months using an indirect ELISA technique. The offspring of the herd was also investigated regarding anti-N. caninum antibodies to determine the vertical transmission rate through the indirect immunofluorescence technique. The initial and final prevalences of infection by N. caninum were 26.0% (13/50) and 72.0% (36/50), respectively, and the incidence of infection by N. caninum in the present study was 62.2% (23/37). The vertical transmission rate found was 15.4% (2/13). A high incidence of infection by N. caninum in sheep was observed, and this is the first report assessing the incidence of N. caninum among naturally infected sheep.

Recovery of Mollicutes from the reproductive tract of dairy cattle in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil / Recuperação de Mollicutes do trato reprodutivo de bovinos leiteiros no Estado de Pernambuco

The aim of the present study was to report the occurrence of members of the Mollicutesclass in the reproductive system of dairy cattle in Brazil. Five farms containing dairy cattle were visited in January of 2012. In total, 100 cows of different ages, breeds and stages of lactation were examined in the present study. The cows were part of intensive or semi-intensive management systems and were submitted to mechanical milking or hand milking. The samples were collected after washing the vulvar region with water and soap, and then drying it with paper towels and disinfecting the area with alcohol (70°GL). Vaginal mucous was collected using a sterile alginate cotton swab, which was rubbed on the vagina, as well as the lateral and internal walls. Vulvovaginal mucous samples were cultured in both liquid and solid modified Hayflick´s medium, for mycoplasmas, and UB medium, for ureaplasmas. The PCR assays for Mollicutesand Ureaplasmaspp. were performed according to the standard protocols described in the current literature. During isolation, the frequency of Mycoplasmaspp. was of 13.0% (13/100) and for Ureaplasmaspp. was of 6.0% (6/100). In the PCR assays the frequency of Mollicuteswas of 26.0% (26/100) and for Ureaplasmaspp. was of 13.0% (13/100) in the dairy cattle studied. This is the first report of these agents in reproductive system of bovine of the Pernambuco state. Further studies are necessary to determine the pathogenic potential and species of these field isolates.

O presente estudo relata a ocorrência de membros da Classe Mollicutesno sistema reprodutivo de bovinos leiteiros no Brasil. Foram visitadas em janeiros de 2012 cinco fazendas de bovinos leiteiros. Um total de 100 vacas de diferentes idades, raças e estágios de lactação foram examinadas. Os animais foram mantidos em sistema de manejo intensivo e/ou semi-intensivo, sendo submetidos aos sistemas de ordenha manual ou mecânica. As amostras de muco foram colhidas após a lavagem da região vulvar com água e sabão, com posterior desinfecção com álcool (70°GL). O muco vaginal foi colhido com suabe alginado estéril que foi friccionado nas paredes internas da vagina. Em seguida, as amostras foram cultivadas em meio Hayflick´s modificado, para micoplasmas, e em meio UB, para ureaplasmas, ambos caldo e placa. Os ensaios da PCR para Mollicutese Ureaplasmaspp. foram realizados de acordo com protocolo padrão descrito na literatura. No isolamento, a frequência de Mycoplasmaspp. foi de 13% (13/100) e para Ureaplasmaspp. foi de 6% (6/100). Nas reações da PCR a frequência para Mollicutesfoi de 26% (26/100) e para Ureaplasmas spp. foi de 13% (13/100) nos rebanhos bovinos leiteiros estudados. Este é o primeiro relato destes agentes no trato reprodutivo de bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Estudos adicionais são necessários para determinar as espécies e o potencial patogênico destes isolados de campo.

Exercise deactivates leukocytes in asthma.

Leukocytes play a central role in asthma physiopathology. Aerobic training (AT) reduces leukocytes recruitment to the airways, but the effects of AT on some aspects of leukocytes activation in asthma are unknown. Therefore, the effects of 4 weeks of AT on airway inflammation, pulmonary and systemic Th2 cytokines levels, leukocytes expression of pro and anti-inflammatory, pro-fibrotic, oxidants and anti-oxidants mediators in an experimental model of asthma was investigated. AT reduced the levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) (p<0.001), serum levels of IL-5, while increased BALF and serum levels of IL-10 (p<0.001). In addition, AT reduced leukocytes activation, showed through decreased expression of Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13; p<0.001), chemokines (CCL5, CCL10; p<0.001), adhesion molecules (VCAM-1, ICAM-1; p<0.05), reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (GP91phox and 3-nitrotyrosine; p<0.001), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS; p<0.001), nuclear factor kB (NF-kB; p<0.001) while increased the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10; p<0.001). AT also decreased the expression of growth factors (TGF-beta, IGF-1, VEGF and EGFr; p<0.001). We conclude that AT reduces the activation of peribronchial leukocytes in a mouse model of allergic asthma, resulting in decreased airway inflammation and Th2 response.

Avaliação sorológica e de fatores de risco para a infecção por Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis em rebanhos leiteiros da Microrregião de Garanhuns, Pernambuco / Serological evaluation and risk factors for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection in dairy herds of Microregion Garanhuns, Pernambuco

Objetivou-se com esse trabalho realizar um inquérito epidemiológico da infecção por Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) em bovinos leiteiros da microrregião de Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brasil. Para este estudo foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 408 animais, provenientes de 19 rebanhos localizados em 15 municípios. O exame sorológico foi realizado por Ensaio Imunoenzimático (ELISA) indireto para detecção de anticorpos frente ao MAP. Em todas as propriedades, foi aplicado um questionário investigativo para análise dos fatores de risco, e as coordenadas geográficas coletadas por um aparelho de Global Position System (GPS) para realização da distribuição espacial. A prevalência da infecção por MAP foi de 2,7% (11/408; I.C. 1,4-4,9). O número de focos foi 47,4% (9/19). Na análise de regressão logística foi identificado como fator de risco a taxa anual de nascimentos superior a 51 bezerros/ano (OR 3,8; I.C. 1,1-13,1). Desta forma, conclui-se que a infecção por MAP encontra-se presente nos rebanhos bovinos leiteiros da microrregião estudada e que medidas de controle baseadas nos fatores de risco identificados devem ser implementadas com o objetivo de reduzir o número de focos da infecção.

The present study aimed to conduct an epidemiological investigation of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) infection in dairy cattle of the Garanhuns microregion, in Pernambuco, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 408 animals from 19 herds located in 15 cities. Serological tests were performed by indirect immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA) for antibodies against MAP. In all farms, a questionnaire to investigate risk factors was used, and Global Position System (GPS) receivers were used to collect geographic coordinates to show the spatial distribution of the animals. The prevalence of MAP infected cattle was 2.7% (11/408; I.C. 1.4-4.9). The rate of infection was 47.4% (9/19). An annual birth rate over 51 calves/year (OR 3.8; I.C. 1.1-13.1) was identified as a risk factor in logistic regression analysis. Thus, it is concluded that MAP infection is present in dairy cattle of the microregion studied here, and control measures based on the identified risk factors should be implemented in order to reduce the sources of infection.

Eficácia in vitro de desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós-dipping frente a Staphylococcus spp. isolados em rebanhos leiteiros / In vitro efficacy of commercial disinfectants used in pre-and post-dipping against Staphylococcus spp. isolated from dairy cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of commercial disinfectants used in pre- and post-dipping, against Staphylococcus spp. isolated from milk originating from dairy cattle farms in the Wasteland and Forest Zone of Alagoas, Brazil. We used iodine (0.57%), chlorhexidine (2.0%), chlorine (2.5%) and quaternary ammonium compound (4.0%) at concentrations indicated, conventionally used as commercial disinfectants before and after dipping. We analyzed a total of 97 isolates of Staphylococcus spp. identified as S. aureus (16), coagulase positive Staphylococcus (7) and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (74). The disinfectants were evaluated at three different times (15", 30" and 60"). We found that 56.3% of Staphylococcus aureus was sensitive to iodine, 68.8% to chlorine, 87.5% to chlorhexidine, and 37.5% to the compound of ammonia, in time 60". As for coagulase positive staphylococci (CPS), 100% of the isolates was resistant to chlorhexidine, 85.7% to the ammonia compound, 57.1% to chlorine, and 42.9% iodine, in time 60". Regarding coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS), 91.9% was sensitive to chlorhexidine, 70.3% to chlorine, 66.2% to iodine, and 24.3% the ammonium compound, at time 60". It is concluded from this study that the greatest disinfectant activity in vitro was with chlorhexidine and chlorine for S. aureus, with iodine and chlorine for SCP, and with chloride and chlorhexidine for SCN. Due to variations in the sensitivity and resistance profile found, it is necessary for regular assessments of the effectiveness of disinfectants used on the farms, to observe the effectiveness of the product and thus ensure the control of mastitis in the herd.

Objetivou-se com esse estudo avaliar a eficácia in vitro de desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós- -dipping, frente a Staphylococcus spp. isolados do leite de vacas procedentes de propriedades leiteiras do Agreste e Zona da Mata do Estado de Alagoas. Foram utilizados iodo (0,57%), clorexidine (2,0%), cloro (2,5%) e composto de amônio quaternário (4,0%), nas concentrações indicadas, como desinfetantes comerciais usados convencionalmente no pré e pós-dipping. Analisou-se um total de 97 isolados de Staphylococcus spp. identificados como S. aureus (16), Staphylococcus coagulase positiva (7) e Staphylococcus coagulase negativa (74). Os desinfetantes foram avaliados em três tempos distintos (15", 30" e 60"). Observou-se que 56,3% de Staphylococcus aureus foram sensíveis ao iodo, 68,8% sensíveis ao cloro, 87,5% à clorexidine e 37,5% ao composto de amônia no tempo de 60". Quanto aos Staphylococcus coagulase positiva (SCP), 100% dos isolados foram resistentes ao clorexidine, 85,7% ao composto de amônio, 57,1% ao cloro, e 42,9 resistentes ao iodo no tempo de 60". Em relação aos Staphylococcus coagulase negativa (SCN) foi observado 91,9% de sensibilidade ao clorexidine, 70,3% sensíveis ao cloro, 66,2% ao iodo e 24,3% sensíveis ao composto de amônio no tempo de 60". Conclui-se com esse estudo que a maior atividade desinfetante in vitro foi verificada para clorexidine e cloro frente aos S. aureus, iodo e cloro para os SCP e clorexidine e cloro para os SCN. Devido às variações no perfil de sensibilidade e resistência encontradas, é necessária a avaliação regular da eficiência dos desinfetantes usados nas propriedades, com o intuito de observar a eficácia do produto e assim garantir o controle da mastite no rebanho.

Situação epidemiológica da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos na microrregião do Brejo Paraibano / Epidemiological situation of Toxoplasma gondii infection in equids from Brejo Paraibano microregion, Brazil

Objetivou-se com o estudo caracterizar a situação epidemiológica da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos na microrregião do Brejo Paraibano, região Nordeste do Brasil. Anticorpos contra T. gondii foram pesquisados em 257 amostras de equídeos (204 equinos, 46 muares e sete asininos) em 26 propriedades. Para o diagnóstico sorológico utilizou-se a Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) e um ponto de corte de 1:64. O número de focos encontrado foi de 46,1%. Nas amostras analisadas, a prevalência geral foi de 7,8% (I.C. 4,8-8,8). A prevalência foi de 8,3% (I.C. 4,9-13,0) para os equinos, 2,2% (I.C. 0,1-11,5) para os muares e 28,6% (I.C. 3,7-71,0) entre os asininos. Na regressão logística das variáveis observou-se que a fonte de água foi um fator de risco, pois naquelas propriedades que forneciam água corrente para os animais o risco de infecção foi 4,4 vezes maior do que naquelas propriedades que forneciam água parada (OR 4,4; I.C. 1,0-19,0). Este é o primeiro relato da presença de anticorpos contra T. gondii em equídeos nessa microrregião do estado da Paraíba. Para diminuir os riscos de infecção nestas espécies, deve-se fornecer aos animais uma água de boa qualidade, bem como evitar acesso de gatos a fontes de água e instalações onde os animais são mantidos.

The objective of the study was to characterize the epidemiological situation of Toxoplasma gondii infection in equids from Brejo Paraibano microregion, Northeastern Brazil. Antibodies against T. gondii were investigated in samples of 257 equids (204 horses, 46 mules and seven donkeys) in 26 properties. For serological diagnosis was used the Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT) and a cut-off of 1:64. The number of foci was found to be 46.1%. In the samples analyzed, the overall prevalence was 7.8% (C.I. 4.8-8.8). The prevalence was 8.3% (C.I. 4.9-13.0) for horses, 2.2% (C.I. 0.1-11.5) for mules and 28.6% (C.I. 3.771.0) among donkeys. Logistic regression of the variables showed that the water source was a risk factor, because in those properties that supplied running water to the animals the risk of infection was 4.4 times higher than in those properties which provided standing water (OR 4.4; C.I. 1.0-19.0). This is the first report of the presence of antibodies against T. gondii in equids in this micro-region of Paraiba State. To reduce the risk of infection in these species, good quality water should be given to the animals, as well as access of cats to water sources and facilities where animals are kept must be avoided.

Fatores de risco associados à mastite bovina na microrregião Garanhuns, Pernambuco / Risk factor related to bovine mastitis in the micro-region of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil

Objetivou-se com este estudo analisar os fatores de risco associados à mastite bovina na microrregião de Garanhuns, Pernambuco. Para isso, foram submetidas ao exame microbiológico 1260 amostras de leite e em cada propriedade foi aplicado um questionário contendo informações relacionadas às características raciais dos animais, dados gerais sobre as propriedades, manejo do rebanho e higiênico-sanitário durante a ordenha. Para a análise dos fatores de risco foi realizada uma regressão logística considerando como variável dependente o exame microbiológico. Ao exame microbiológico observou-se 477 (37,9%) amostras positivas e 783 (62,1%) negativas. Os fatores de risco associados à mastite foram: sistema de criação semi-intensivo (OR=2,3; p<0,0001), alimentação dos animais durante a ordenha (OR=1,3; p=0,0101), rodízio de antimicrobianos (OR=1,3; p=0,0077) e o uso da terapia da vaca seca (OR=1,5; p=0,0013). Os resultados obtidos demonstram que os principais fatores de risco associados à mastite estão relacionados ao manejo higiênico-sanitário ao qual o rebanho é submetido. O conhecimento desses fatores fornece subsídios para a elaboração de medidas de prevenção e controle para a enfermidade em questão, melhorando a produtividade dos animais e, consequentemente, a lucratividade do sistema de produção.

The objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors for bovine mastitis in the micro-region of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil. For this, was submitted for microbiologic exam 1260 milk samples and on each farm was applied a questionnaire about characteristics of animal breeds, general data from the farm, handling of cattle and sanitary measures for milking. To analyze the risk factors, a logistic regression was made as a dependent variable of the microbiologic exam. The microbiologic exams showed 477 (37.9%) positive samples and 783 (62.1%) negatives ones. The risk factors for bovine mastitis were: the semi-intensive breeding system (OR=2.3, p<0.0001), feeding during milking (OR=1.3, p=0.0101), antimicrobial shift (OR=1.3, p=0.00770), and dry cow therapy (OR=1.5; p=0.0013). The results show that the main risk factors are associated with handling to which the cattle is submitted. The knowledge of these factors allow to adopt prevention and control measures to avoid mastitis to improve animal productivity and gain within the production system.

Violência doméstica e enfermagem: da percepção do fenômeno à realidade cotidiana / Violencia doméstica y enfermería: de la percepción del fenómeno a la realidad cotidiana / Domestic Violence and Nursing: from the Perception of the Phenomenon to Daily Reality

Aviolência decorre dos conflitos de autoridade, das lutas de poder, da vontade de domínio, do desejo de aniquilação dos outros e de seus bens. É importante considerar os impactos que os casos de violência têm na sociedade. O estudo teve como objetivo a identificação da percepção dos enfermeiros de Atenção Básica sobre o fenômeno da violência doméstica e sua relação com as famílias. Foi um estudo prospectivo, descritivo e exploratório, de abordagem qualitativa, e sustentada pela Teoria de Intervenção "Práxica" da Enfermagem de Saúde Coletiva. Foram propostas três categorias de análise: conceito de família, processo de trabalho do enfermeiro na Atenção Básica e gênero. Sete entrevistas em profundidade foram feitas a enfermeiras das Unidades Básicas de Saúde na região metropolitana de São Paulo. A técnica de Análise do Discurso de Fiorin foi utilizada, surgindo dela quatro categorias empíricas: Refletindo sobre a família e o processo Saúde-Doença; a família e seus conceitos atuais; o trabalho de enfermeira com as famílias das vítimas de violência, eles exprimiram sua impotência para ultrapassá-las e percebem uma carência de cursos de preparação e de capacitação que dificultam a ação profissional perante este tema. É sugerida a capacitação dos profissionais através da educação permanente para reorganizar o processo de trabalho, focalizado nas necessidades das famílias vítimas de violência.

La violencia transcurre de los conflictos de autoridad, de las luchas por el poder, de la voluntad de dominio, deseo de aniquilamiento de otro o de sus bienes. Se debe considerar los impactos que los casos de violencia causan en los servicios de salud. Tuvo como objetivo identificar la percepción de los enfermeros de la Atención Básica acerca del fenómeno de la violencia doméstica y su relación con las familias. Es un estudio prospectivo, descriptivo y exploratorio, abordaje cualitativo, sustentado por la Teoría de Intervención "Práxica" de la Enfermería en Salud Colectiva; fueron propuestas tres categorías analíticas: concepto de familia, proceso de trabajo del enfermero en la Atención Básica y género. Fueron realizadas siete entrevistas en profundidad con enfermeras de Unidades Básicas de Salud en la región Metropolitana de São Paulo. Fue utilizada la técnica de Análisis de Discurso de Fiorin, emergiendo cuatro categorías empíricas: Reflexionando sobre la familia y el proceso Salud Enfermedad; la familia y sus conceptos actuales; el trabajo de la enfermera con las familias víctimas de violencia; y las conductas realizadas frente a los casos de violencia. Se concluye que las enfermeras reconocen las dificultades y facilidades en la atención de familias víctimas de violencia, expresaron impotencia para superarlas y perciben escasez de cursos preparatorios y capacitaciones que dificultan la actuación profesional frente a la temática. Se sugiere la capacitación de los profesionales a través de la educación permanente para reorganizar el proceso de trabajo, enfocando a las necesidades de las familias víctimas de violencia.

Violence is derived from conflicts of authority, power struggles, the will to dominate, the desire to destroy others and their assets. It is important to consider the impact that cases of violence have on health services. The goal was to identify the Basic Care nurses' perception of the phenomenon of domestic violence and their relation with the families. Thanks to a prospective, descriptive and exploratory study, made with a qualitative approach and based upon the "Práxica" theory of intervention of Collective Health nursing. Three analytical categories were proposed: the concept of family, the work process of the Basic Attention nurses and gender. Seven in-depth interviews were made to the nurses of the Basic Care Units in the metropolitan region of Sao Paulo. The Fiorin Discourse analysis technique was used, which resulted in four empirical categories: Reflection about families and the health-disease process; the family and its current concepts; the nurse's work with the families that are victims of violence and the position taken when faced to cases of violence. It was concluded that the nurses recognize the difficulties and simplicities in the attention of families that were victims of violence. They expressed their impotence to overcome the difficulties and they sense a lack of preparation and training courses related to this matter, which in turn makes professional performance rather difficult. It was also suggested that professional training through permanent education is the way to reorganize the work processes, focusing on the needs of the families that were victims of violence.

[Diuretics improve functional capacity in patients with congestive heart failure]. / Diuréticos melhoram a capacidade funcional em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva.

PURPOSE: The 6-9 minute walking test was used in this study to evaluate the impact of these drugs on functional capacity of patients admitted to the Hospital because of Heart Failure (CHF). METHODS: Ten patients (5 males and 5 females) with mean age of 47 years and NYHACHF functional class III or IV underwent a 6-9 minute walking test at admission and on the day of discharge from the Hospital. The following parameters were evaluated both at admission and discharge: body weight, echocardiography-derived LV dimensions and function, plasmatic levels of sodium, potassium, Bun, creatinine, hemoglobin and hematocrit. Treatment consisted of increasing outpatient dose of furosemide (IV and/or PO) plus the association of thiazide if necessary. The previous dose regimen of digitalis, ACE inhibitors or the association nitrate and hydralazine was kept unchanged. RESULTS: Time to compensation of CHF varied from 4 to 30 days (mean 8.7 +/- 7.8 days). LV end diastolic dimension varied from 47 to 81mm. LV EF spanned from 0.26 to 0.74. The 6min walking distance improved from 193.4 +/- 71.5m to 341.8 +/- 67.7m (p < 0.00002) and the 9min walking distance from 268.1 +/- 119.6m to 518.0 +/- 114.8m (p < 0.00005). Hemoglobin, hematocrit, BUN, creatinine and sodium levels were unchanged from admission to discharge, whereas plasma potassium level increased from 4.0 +/- 0.9mEq/l to 4.69 +/- 1.00mEq/l (p = 0.01), and body weight was reduced from 58.9 +/- 6.42kg to 52.9 +/- 5.3lkg (p < 0.0006). CONCLUSION: Compensating CHF with diuretics leads to a significant improvement in physical capacity. This benefit already evident in the in-hospital phase.

Diuréticos melhoram a capacidade funcional em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva / Diuretics improve functional capacity in patients with congestive heart failure

OBJETIVO - Quantificar a influência do diuréticos/ na capacidade funcional em portadores de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva (ICC) descompensada, através do teste de caminhada. MÉTODOS - Estudamos 10 pacientes internados, com idade média de 47 anos, sendo cinco do sexo masculino, com ICC descompensada, em classe funcional III e IV (NYHA), submetidos ao teste de caminhada de 6 e 9min na admissäo e alta. Foram obtidos registros na admissäo e alta, do peso, do ecocardiograma, sódio, potássio, uréia, creatinina séricos, hematócrito e hemoglobina. O tratamneot instituído foi o aumento da dose prévia de furosemida EV e/ou VO, associado ou näo a diurético tiazídico, tendo sido mantidas as doses prévias de digital, captoril ou da associaçäo de nitrato e hidralazina. RESULTADOS - O período de compensaçäo variou entre 4 a 30 dias (médias 8,7ñ7,8 dias). Ao ecocardiograma bidimensional apresentaram diâmetro do ventrículo esquerdo que variou de 47 a 81mm e a fraçäo de ejeçäo de 0,26 a 0,74. A distância caminhada em 6min passou de 193,4ñ71,5m para 341,8ñ67,7m (p menor 0,00002) e em 9min passou de 268,1ñ119,6m para 518,0ñ114,8m (p menor 0,00005). Näo houve diferença estatística entre os valores, na admissäo e alta, do hematócrito, hemoglobina, uréia, creatinina e sódio. O potássio sérico médio à admissäo era de 4,0ñ0,91mEq/l e na alta 4,69ñ1,00mEq/l (p=0,01) e o peso dos pacientes na admissäo e na alta foi de 58,9ñ6,42kg para 52,9ñ5,31kg, respectivamente (p menor 0,0006). CONCLUSÄO - A compensaçäo da ICC com o uso de diurético induziu a uma melhora importante, a curto prazo, da capacidade física dos pacientes, demostrada pelo /aumento da distância caminhada em 6 e 9min. O diurético melhorou significativamente o desempenho físico.

[When does the treatment with captopril show a better improvement in physical performance in patients with heart failure?]. / Em que momento do tratamento o uso do captopril determina melhora mais acentuada do desempenho físico em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca?

PURPOSE: Considering that heart failure reduces exercise capacity and that converting enzyme inhibitor increases this capacity, using the 6 min walk test we try to demonstrate when the treatment with captopril shows a better improvement in exercise capacity in patients with heart failure. METHODS: Twenty one patients with functional class II or III heart failure (NYHA), left ventricular diastolic diameter greater than 55 mm and with ejection fraction less than 45% were studied. Twelve were male, and the patients mean age was 48 years. The patients were first treated with digital and diuretics and after stabilized they received captopril 25 mg three times a day and underwent the 6 min walk test before the treatment and after four and 16 weeks. RESULTS: The use of captopril showed important improvement in exercise capacity in patients with heart failure. The mean walking distance on the 6 min test was 451 m at the beginning, 476 m in four weeks and 504 in 16 weeks of treatment (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Our data show important improvement in exercise capacity with 16 weeks of treatment and that 50% of this improvement occurred after four weeks of treatment. We concluded that the results are already observed within four weeks of treatment and continues to improve during at least four months of treatment.

Oximetria de pulso: algoritmos de cálculo / Pulse oximetry: algorithms of calculation

Este trabalho apresenta os fundamentos do método de cálculo da SpO2 e discute dois diferentes algoritmos. As vantagens e desvantagens de cada uma deles são ressaltadas. Através de alguns resultados comprova-se que a eliminação do componente DC do sinal não afeta o cálculo da SpO2 e simplifica o tratamento analógico, proporcionando uma maior confiabilidade ao sistema.

Características gerais de um oxímetro de pulso / General characteristics of the pulse oximeter

Este trabalho apresenta as principais características de um oxímetro de pulso atualmente em desenvolvimento pelo LEB-UFPE e NETEB-UFPB. O sistema emprega um micro-controlador como unidade central de processamento e um mostrador gráfico de cristal líquido para apresentação da curva pletismográfica e dos valores da SpO2 e da freqüência cardíaca.

This paper reports on the design and development of a microcontroller-based pulse oximeter able to display the absorption pulse, the Sp02 and the heart rate on a graphic LCD

[Exercise capacity evaluation in patients with mild to moderate left ventricular dysfunction. Influence of captopril]. / Avaliação da capacidade de exercício em pacientes com disfunção ventricular esquerda de leve a moderada. A influência do captopril.

PURPOSE: To analyse the captopril influence on physical activity on the six or nine minute walk test in patients with left ventricular dysfunction and mild or moderate failure. METHODS: Twenty one patients with functional class II or III heart failure and left ventricular diastolic diameter greater than 55 mm and with ejection fraction less than 45% were studied. Twelve were male, and the patients age range from 34 to 63 years old (mean 48 years). The protocol has 18 weeks of duration, the first two weeks constitute a washout period, and 16 of effective use of captopril 25 mg tid. The patients were submitted to clinical and laboratory evaluations, to echocardiogram study and six and nine minute walk test (distance of walk), before, through out, and after the protocol. RESULTS: The distance of walk on six minute test were 451 m at the beginning, and 476 m in 4 weeks and 504 m at 16 weeks of treatment (p < 0.0001). At nine minute test it was respectively 599, 652 and 692 m (p < 0.001). The echocardiographic evaluation showed significative reduction of the left ventricular diastolic diameter and an increase of the left ventricular ejection fraction. The clinical evaluation after the treatment showed that 45% comes to functional class I, and only 10% stayed in class III. CONCLUSION: Captopril 25 mg tid improves clinical performance significantly, with improvement of walk distance at six or nine minute of test, and with reduction of left ventricular end diastolic diameter and systolic function improvement. The results permits to conclude that captopril improves significantly the physical activity of patients with heart failure, this improves were observed with one months of therapy but is more evident with four months of effective treatment.