Brazilian indigenous nonstarter lactic acid bacteria enhance the diversification of volatile compounds in short-aged cheese.

There is growing interest in using autochthonous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) that provide unique sensory characteristics to dairy products without affecting their safety and quality. This work studied the capacity of three Brazilian indigenous nonstarter LABs (NSLAB) to produce biogenic amines (BAs) and evaluated their effect on the volatile organic compounds (VOCs), microbial LAB communities, and physicochemical profile of short-aged cheese. Initially, the strain's potential for biosynthesis of BAs was assessed by PCR and in vitro assays. Then, a pilot-scale cheese was produced, including the NSLAB, and the microbial and VOC profiles were analyzed after 25 and 45 days of ripening. As a results, the strains did not present genes related to relevant BAs and did not produce them in vitro. During cheese ripening, the Lactococci counts were reduced, probably in the production of alcohols and acid compounds by the NSLAB. Each strain produces a unique VOC profile that changes over the ripening time without the main VOCs related to rancid or old cheese. Particularly, the use of the strain Lacticaseibacillus. paracasei ItalPN16 resulted in production of ester compounds with fruity notes. Thus, indigenous NSLAB could be a valuable tool for the enhancement and diversification of flavor in short-aged cheese.

A Synergic Strategy: Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Spheroids Seeded on 3D-Printed PLA/CHA Scaffolds Implanted in a Bone Critical-Size Defect Model.

Bone critical-size defects and non-union fractures have no intrinsic capacity for self-healing. In this context, the emergence of bone engineering has allowed the development of functional alternatives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of ASC spheroids in bone regeneration using a synergic strategy with 3D-printed scaffolds made from poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and nanostructured hydroxyapatite doped with carbonate ions (CHA) in a rat model of cranial critical-size defect. In summary, a set of results suggests that ASC spheroidal constructs promoted bone regeneration. In vitro results showed that ASC spheroids were able to spread and interact with the 3D-printed scaffold, synthesizing crucial growth factors and cytokines for bone regeneration, such as VEGF. Histological results after 3 and 6 months of implantation showed the formation of new bone tissue in the PLA/CHA scaffolds that were seeded with ASC spheroids. In conclusion, the presence of ASC spheroids in the PLA/CHA 3D-printed scaffolds seems to successfully promote bone formation, which can be crucial for a significant clinical improvement in critical bone defect regeneration.

Draft Genome Sequence and Comparative Genome Analysis Reveal Potential Functional Properties in Lacticaseibacillus paracasei ItalPN16.

Nowadays, there is a great interest on rapid and effective methods for initial identification of probiotic bacteria. In this work, potential probiotic features of the lactic acid bacteria strain ItalPN16 isolated from a traditional Brazilian cheese were studied using bioinformatic tools. The complete genome sequence was obtained, and in silico analyses were carried out to identify the strain and its potential probiotic properties. The sequenced genome (3.02 Mb) presented 3126 protein-coding sequences distributed on 244 SEED subsystems, classifying the strain as nomadic lactobacilli. Phylogenetic and ANI analyses allowed to locate the ItalPN16 strain as a member of the Lacticaseibacillus paracasei group, due to the highest number of orthologous genes in common with reference L. paracasei strains (>98%). In silico analyses revealed the presence of CDSs related to microbe-host interactions, such as adhesion proteins and exopolysaccharide biosynthesis genes. The comparative analysis reveals the presence of a strain-specific glycosyl transferases, compared with other three L. paracasei strains and a high level of protein expression (92%) with the probiotic L. paracasei BL29. The results obtained here indicated interesting probiotic features of the strain L. paracasei ItalPN16 that could favor a future application in the food industry.

Microencapsulation of Limosilactobacillus reuteri (DSM 23878) for application in infant formula: Heat resistance and bacterial viability during long-time storage.

This study aimed to evaluate the survival capacity of the probiotic culture Limosilactobacillus reuteri (DSM 23878) to microencapsulation by spray drying, and its potential as component of an infant formula. Preliminary tests were performed between skim milk (SM) and infant formula (IF) as wall material and two inlet temperatures, evaluating the encapsulation efficiency, moisture content, water activity and stability, to choose the drying parameters. After drying in optimized conditions, the powder of microencapsulated L. reuteri was characterized and the viability after dilution in an infant formula at 70 °C was determined. In addition, the survival rate throughout 360 days of storage was assessed. As results, encapsulation efficiency was superior to 90 % in both wall materials. However, the use of IF as for microencapsulation produced microparticles with lower water activity (Aw) and moisture, as compared with the SM. Final microparticles produced with IF as wall material presented values of Aw, moisture content, and particle diameter averaged 0.11 ± 0.02, 2.10 ± 0.35 % and 10.30 ± 0.12 µm, respectively. The viability of microencapsulated L.reuteri decreased 1 Log CFU/mL after dilution at 70 °C and the powder maintained a survivor of 73.5 % after 365 days of storage at 4 °C. Thus, the microencapsulation by spray drying under the conditions of this study proved to be an effective technique to protect the probiotic L. reuteri for application in infant formulas, obtaining an adequate number of viable cells after reconstitution at 70 °C and during long time the storage.

Improved functional properties of the potential probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei ItalPN16 growing in cheese whey.

The production of probiotic bacteria requires specific and expensive culture media for maintain their viability and metabolic response during gastro-intestinal transit and cell adhesion process. The aim of this study was to compare the ability of the potential probiotic Laticaseibacillus paracasei ItalPN16 to grow in plain sweet whey (SW) and acid whey (AW), evaluating changes in some probiotic properties related to the culture media. Pasteurized SW and AW were suitable media for L. paracasei growth, since counts above 9 Log CFU/ml were achieved using <50% of the total sugars in both whey samples after 48 h at 37°C. The L. paracasei cells obtained from AW or SW cultures showed increased resistance to pH 2.5 and 3.5, higher autoaggregation, and lower cell hydrophobicity, as compared with the control of MRS. SW also improved the biofilm formation ability and cell adhesion capability to Caco-2 cells. Our results indicate that the L. paracasei adaptation to the SW conditions, inducing metabolic changes that improved its stability to acid stress, biofilm formation, autoaggregation, and cell adhesion properties, which are important functional probiotic properties. Overall, the SW could be considered as low-cost culture medium for sustainable biomass production of L. paracasei ItalPN16.

Desenvolvimento de uma tecnologia digital de apoio à terapia cognitivo-comportamental / Development of a digital technology to support cognitive behavioral therapy / Desarrollo de una tecnología digital de apoyo a la terapia cognitivo-conductual

INTRODUÇÃO: Na atualidade, abordagens que se utilizam de aplicativos tecnológicos para solução de problemas psicológicos têm sido cada vez mais comuns, de modo que múltiplos estudos têm evidenciado eficácia bem estabelecida nessa modalidade de intervenção. OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente trabalho é o de apresentar o projeto-piloto do desenvolvimento de uma ferramenta, com componentes mobile e web, de apoio ao tratamento psicológico via Terapia Cognitivo-Comportamental. De forma específica, será discorrido sobre a metodologia de desenvolvimento da pesquisa e projeto de software, apresentação da solução tecnológica desenvolvida, avaliação da solução e as considerações finais. METODOLOGIA: A metodologia adotada foi o Design Science Research (DSR), que propõe a resolução de problemas por meio de criação de artefatos. RESULTADOS: Como resultado obteve-se uma solução tecnológica centralizada e eficaz, por meio de um Software as a Service (SAAS), composto por um sistema web que permite ao psicoterapeuta gerenciar o tratamento psicológico pela Terapia Cognitivo-comportamental e um aplicativo móvel que possibilita ao paciente o registro preciso de funcionamento cognitivo-comportamental diário, frequência de sintomas, atividades gamificadas, e técnicas de manejo. CONCLUSÃO: A integração entre áreas da psicologia e da tecnologia tem sido cada vez mais comum, contudo é primordial a condução de estudos que descrevam desde sua concepção até a sua aplicação, com vistas a uma validação baseada em evidências científicas.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, psychological perspectives that use technological applications to solve mental health disorders have been increasingly common, in addition multiple studies have shown well-established effectiveness in this type of intervention. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present work is to present the pilot project of the development of a tool, with mobile and web components, to support psychological treatment via Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Specifically, the research development methodology and software design, presentation of the developed technological solution, evaluation of the solution and final considerations will be discussed. METHODOLOGY: The methodology adopted was Design Science Research (DSR), which proposes the resolution of problems through the creation of artifacts. RESULTS: As a result, a centralized and effective technological solution was obtained, through a Software as a Service (SAAS), composed of a web system that allows the psychotherapist to manage psychological treatment through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and a mobile application that provide the patient with an accurate record of daily cognitive-behavioral functioning, symptom frequency, gamified activities, and management techniques. CONCLUSION: The integration between areas of psychology and technology has been increasin, however, it is essential to conduct studies that describe from its conception to its application, with the aim to a validation based on scientific evidence.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Actualmente, los enfoques que utilizan aplicaciones tecnológicas para solucionar transtornos mentales son cada vez más comunes, por lo que múltiples estudios han demostrado una efectividad bien establecida en este tipo de intervenciones. OBJETIVO: El objetivo del presente estudio es presentar el proyecto piloto del desarrollo de una herramienta, con componentes móviles y web, para apoyar el tratamiento psicológico a través del uso de Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual. Específicamente, se discutirá la metodología de desarrollo de la investigación y el diseño del software, presentación de la solución tecnológica desarrollada, evaluación de la solución y consideraciones finales. METODOLOGÍA: La metodología adoptada fue Design Science Research (DSR), que propone la resolución de problemas a través de la creación de artefactos. RESULTADOS: Como resultado se obtuvo una solución tecnológica centralizada y eficaz, a través de un Software como Servicio (SaaS), compuesta por un sistema web que permite al psicoterapeuta gestionar el tratamiento psicológico a través de la Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual y una aplicación móvil que permite al paciente un registro preciso del funcionamiento cognitivo-conductual diario, la frecuencia de los síntomas, las actividades gamificadas y las técnicas de manejo. CONCLUSIÓN: La integración entre áreas de la psicología y la tecnología han sido cada vez más comunes, sin embargo es fundamental realizar estudios que describan desde su concepción hasta su aplicación, buscando una validación basada en evidencia científica.

Clinical ethnographic narrative interview about the experience of women discharged from the prison system / Entrevista narrativa clínica etnográfica sobre la experiencia de mujeres salidas del sistema penitenciario / Entrevista narrativa etnográfica clínica sobre a experiência de mulheres egressas do sistema prisional

ABSTRACT Objectives to analyze the perception of women discharged from the prison system about the main stressors that marked their life trajectories and to discuss the feasibility of the Clinical Ethnographic Narrative Interview technique to facilitate the narrative of this group. Method narrative research developed in a social protection center in the interior of São Paulo. Data were collected in 2021 (January and February) using the Clinical Ethnographic Narrative Interview technique, which intersperses narratives and visual aids. The synergy between the concepts of vulnerability and stress was adopted as a theoretical framework, and content analysis was performed. The discussion of viability was based on the criteria of acceptability and expansion. Results The narratives addressed psychosocial difficulties prior to incarceration and the hostile environment of the overcrowded prison as a place of conflict and abuse of power. Family helplessness, estrangement from children, negative emotions, somatic symptoms and traumas were mentioned as consequences of seclusion. The participants also reported coping processes with words that referred to the ideas of overcoming, hope, new beginning and gratitude. It is understood that this high point of the narratives may reflect the potential of the interview technique and corroborates its adequacy. Conclusion The undoubted painful character of the narratives about the different adversities experienced, especially as a result of seclusion, was also permeated by aspects that denoted resilient processes. The adoption of this interview technique made data collection more sensitive, welcoming and timely to expand the repertoire of words in the expression of feelings and revisit painful experiences, envisioning positive possibilities for the future.

RESUMEN Objetivos analizar la percepción de mujeres egresadas del sistema penitenciario sobre los principales estresores que marcaron sus trayectorias de vida y discutir la viabilidad de la técnica de Entrevista Narrativa Etnográfica Clínica para facilitar la narrativa de este grupo. Método investigación narrativa desarrollada en un dispositivo de protección social del interior de São Paulo. Los datos fueron recolectados en 2021 (enero y febrero) utilizando la técnica de Entrevista Narrativa Etnográfica Clínica, que intercala narrativas y ayudas visuales. Se adoptó como marco teórico la sinergia entre los conceptos de vulnerabilidad y estrés y se realizó un análisis de contenido. La discusión de viabilidad se basó en los criterios de aceptabilidad y expansión Resultados Las narrativas abordaron las dificultades psicosociales previas al encarcelamiento y el ambiente hostil de la prisión superpoblada como locus de conflicto y abuso de poder. Se mencionaron como consecuencias de la reclusión el desamparo familiar, el alejamiento de los hijos, las emociones negativas, los síntomas somáticos y los traumas. Los participantes también relataron procesos de afrontamiento con palabras que hacían referencia a las ideas de superación, esperanza, nuevo comienzo y gratitud. Se entiende que este punto alto de las narraciones puede reflejar el potencial de la técnica de la entrevista y corrobora su adecuación. Conclusión El indudable carácter doloroso de las narrativas sobre las diferentes adversidades vividas, especialmente a raíz del encierro, también estuvo permeado por aspectos que denotaban procesos resilientes. La adopción de esta técnica de entrevista hizo que la recolección de datos fuera más sensible, acogedora y oportuna para ampliar el repertorio de palabras en la expresión de sentimientos y revivir experiencias dolorosas, vislumbrando posibilidades positivas para el futuro.

RESUMO Objetivos analisar a percepção de mulheres egressas do sistema prisional sobre os principais estressores que marcaram suas trajetórias de vida e discutir a viabilidade da técnica Entrevista Narrativa Etnográfica Clínica para facilitar a narrativa desse grupo. Método pesquisa narrativa desenvolvida em um dispositivo de proteção social do interior de São Paulo. Os dados foram coletados em 2021 (janeiro e fevereiro) utilizando a técnica Entrevista Narrativa Etnográfica Clínica, que intercala narrativas e recursos visuais. A sinergia entre os conceitos de vulnerabilidade e estresse foi adotada como referencial teórico, tendo sido realizada a análise de conteúdo. A discussão da viabilidade foi pautada nos critérios aceitabilidade e expansão. Resultados As narrativas abordaram dificuldades psicossociais pregressas ao encarceramento e o ambiente hostil do cárcere superlotado como lócus de conflitos e abuso de poder. Desamparo familiar, distanciamento dos filhos, emoções negativas, sintomas somáticos e traumas foram mencionados como consequências da reclusão. As participantes também relataram processos de enfrentamento com palavras que remetiam às ideias de superação, esperança, recomeço e gratidão. Entende-se que esse ponto alto das narrativas pode ter reflexos do potencial da técnica de entrevista e corrobora a sua adequação. Conclusão O indubitável caráter doloroso das narrativas sobre as diferentes adversidades vivenciadas, sobretudo em decorrência da reclusão, também foi perpassado por aspectos que denotaram processos resilientes. A adoção da referida técnica de entrevista tornou a coleta de dados mais sensível, acolhedora e oportuna para ampliar o repertório de palavras na expressão dos sentimentos e revisitação de experiências dolorosas, vislumbrando possibilidades positivas para o futuro.

Does Melatonin Associated with Nanostructured Calcium Phosphate Improve Alveolar Bone Repair?

Background and objectives: Calcium phosphates have been widely used as bone substitutes, but their properties are limited to osteoconduction. The association of calcium phosphates with osteoinductive bioactive molecules has been used as a strategy in regenerative medicine. Melatonin has been studied due to its cell protection and antioxidant functions, reducing osteoclastic activity and stimulating newly formed bone. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of topical application of melatonin associated with nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite microspheres in the alveolar bone repair of Wistar rats through histological and histomorphometric analysis. Materials and Methods: Thirty female Wistar rats (300 g) were used, divided randomly into three experimental groups (n = 10), G1: nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite microspheres associated with melatonin gel (CHA-M); G2: nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA); G3: blood clot (without alveolar filling). The animals were euthanized after 7 and 42 days of the postoperative period and processed for histological and histomorphometric evaluation. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post-test were applied to investigate statistical differences between the groups at the same time point for new bone and connective tissue variables. Mann-Whitney was used to assess statistical differences between different time points and in the biomaterial variable. Results: Results showed a greater volume of residual biomaterial in the CHA-M than the CHA group (p = 0.007), and there were no significant differences in terms of newly formed bone and connective tissue between CHA and CHA-M after 42 days. Conclusions: This study concluded that both biomaterials improved alveolar bone repair from 7 to 42 days after surgery, and the association of CHA with melatonin gel reduced the biomaterial's biodegradation at the implanted site but did not improve the alveolar bone repair.

Long-term treatment of cancer-prone germline PTEN mutant mice with low-dose rapamycin extends lifespan and delays tumour development.

PTEN is one of the most commonly inactivated tumour suppressor genes in sporadic cancer. Germline heterozygous PTEN gene alterations also underlie PTEN hamartoma tumour syndrome (PHTS), a rare human cancer-predisposition condition. A key feature of systemic PTEN deregulation is the inability to adequately dampen PI3-kinase (PI3K)/mTORC1 signalling. PI3K/mTORC1 pathway inhibitors such as rapamycin are therefore expected to neutralise the impact of PTEN loss, rendering this a more druggable context compared with those of other tumour suppressor pathways such as loss of TP53. However, this has not been explored in cancer prevention in a model of germline cancer predisposition, such as PHTS. Clinical trials of short-term treatment with rapamycin have recently been initiated for PHTS, focusing on cognition and colon polyposis. Here, we administered a low dose of rapamycin from the age of 6 weeks onwards to mice with heterozygous germline Pten loss, a mouse model that recapitulates most characteristics of human PHTS. Rapamycin was well tolerated and led to a highly significant improvement of survival in both male and female mice. This was accompanied by a delay in, but not full blockade of, the development of a range of proliferative lesions, including gastro-intestinal and thyroid tumours and endometrial hyperplasia, with no impact on mammary and prostate tumours, and no effect on brain overgrowth. Our data indicate that rapamycin may have cancer prevention potential in human PHTS. This might also be the case for sporadic cancers in which genetic PI3K pathway activation is an early event in tumour development, such as endometrial cancer and some breast cancers. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a long-term treatment of a germline cancer predisposition model with a PI3K/mTOR pathway inhibitor. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Biobank and Pathology Facility: A Successful Combination.

Financial sustainability in biobanks has recently become a key issue globally, as biorepositories struggle to balance limited external funding and high operating costs. To maximize governance and operational efficiency, the Pathology Facility and the University College London (UCL)/UCL Hospitals Biobank for Studying Health and Disease ("the Biobank") have been grouped together under the same management at the UCL Cancer Institute. This paper explores the operational and financial interaction between the Pathology Facility and the Biobank over a period of 3 years (2017-2019). Since 2017, only a minority of the requests included collection of samples from the archive or molecular biology services, and most of the requests included histology services. Our data confirmed the difficulty for a biobank to achieve financial sustainability. The integration of the Pathology Facility with the Biobank within a single laboratory management and delivery infrastructure was shown to be an effective management option and presented a unique opportunity to overcome financial and operational challenges, thus improving efficiency and lowering costs for both parties.

In Vivo Evaluation of Permeable and Impermeable Membranes for Guided Bone Regeneration.

BACKGROUND: The degree of biodegradation and the inflammatory response of membranes employed for guided bone regeneration directly impact the outcome of this technique. This study aimed to evaluate four different experimental versions of Poly (L-lactate-co-Trimethylene Carbonate) (PTMC) + Poly (L-lactate-co-glycolate) (PLGA) membranes, implanted in mouse subcutaneous tissue, compared to a commercially available membrane and a Sham group. METHODS: Sixty Balb-C mice were randomly divided into six experimental groups and subdivided into 1, 3, 6 and 12 weeks (n = 5 groups/period). The membranes (1 cm2) were implanted in the subcutaneous back tissue of the animals. The samples were obtained for descriptive and semiquantitative histological evaluation (ISO 10993-6). RESULTS: G1 and G4 allowed tissue adhesion and the permeation of inflammatory cells over time and showed greater phagocytic activity and permeability. G2 and G3 detached from the tissue in one and three weeks; however, in the more extended periods, they presented a rectilinear and homogeneous aspect and were not absorbed. G2 had a major inflammatory reaction. G5 was almost completely absorbed after 12 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The membranes are considered biocompatible. G5 showed a higher degree of biosorption, followed by G1 and G4. G2 and G3 are considered non-absorbable in the studied periods.

Cuidados paliativos e comunicação: uma reflexão à luz da teoria do final de vida pacífico / Palliative care and communication: a reflection in the light of the peaceful end of life theory / Cuidados paliativos y comunicación: una reflexión a la luz de la teoría del final pacífico de la vida

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a contribuição do cuidado de enfermagem, com ênfase na comunicação, para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos na fase terminal e seus familiares. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado em um Hospital Filantrópico da cidade de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, em 2019, desenvolvido com 15 familiares de pacientes em cuidados paliativos, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo, proposta por Bardin, à luz da Teoria do Final de Vida Pacífico. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: 'A comunicação dos profissionais de enfermagem como estratégia para promover conforto, paz, dignidade e respeito para pacientes e familiares em cuidados paliativos'; 'A presença e o diálogo de pessoas importantes para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos são fundamentais para um final de vida pacífico.' Conclusão: espera-se que, através desse estudo, seja possível aprimorar a assistência à família acerca da comunicação nos cuidados paliativos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the contribution of nursing care, with emphasis on communication, for the patient under palliative care in the terminal phase and their families. Method: qualitative study, conducted in a Philanthropic Hospital in the city of João Pessoa-PB, Brazil, in 2019, developed with 15 family members of patients in palliative care, through semi-structured interviews. The data were submitted to content analysis, proposed by Bardin, in the light of the Pacific End of Life Theory. Results: two categories emerged: 'Communication by nursing professionals as a strategy to promote comfort, peace, dignity and respect for patients and families in palliative care'; 'The presence and dialogue of people important to the patient under palliative care are fundamental for a peaceful end of life.' Conclusion: it is hoped that, through this study, it will be possible to improve assistance to the family about communication in palliative care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la contribución de los cuidados de enfermería, con énfasis en la comunicación, para el paciente en cuidados paliativos en fase terminal y sus familias. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un Hospital Filantrópico de la ciudad de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, en 2019, desarrollado con 15 familiares de pacientes en cuidados paliativos, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los datos fueron sometidos a un análisis de contenido, propuesto por Bardin, a la luz de la Teoría del Final Tranquilo de la Vida. Resultados: surgieron dos categorías: "La comunicación de los profesionales de enfermería como estrategia para promover el confort, la paz, la dignidad y el respeto a los pacientes y familiares en los cuidados paliativos"; "La presencia y el diálogo de las personas importantes para el paciente en los cuidados paliativos son fundamentales para un final de vida tranquilo". Conclusión: se espera que, a través de este estudio, sea posible mejorar la asistencia a la familia sobre la comunicación en los cuidados paliativos.

Esophagomediastinal fistula: a rare case of gastrointestinal tuberculosis.

A 40-year-old male with history of HIV infection was admitted to the hospital with a one-month history of productive cough, vespertine fever, night sweats, loss of appetite and unintentional 10-Kg weight loss. Physical exam was remarkable for cachexia. Blood tests revealed a CD4+ T lymphocyte count of 23 cells/mm3 and HIV viral load of 837,678 copies/ml. Bacilloscopies were positive. Chest computed thomography (CT) showed multiple mediastinal lymph nodes, signs of esophagomediastinal fistula, pericardial effusion and multiple micronodular pulmonary opacities. Endoscopy (EGD) revealed a 10 mm deep ulcer-like lesion in the middle esophagus with pus overflow, but no bubbles were seen. The diagnosis of stage C3 HIV infection with disseminated tuberculosis was made and the patient underwent standard antituberculosis (RIPE) and antiretroviral therapy. Given the mediastinitis risk a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube was placed for nutritional purposes.

"Dry oral and ocular manifestations and autoantibodies characteristic of primary Sjögren's syndrome in multiple sclerosis".

INTRODUCTION: The relationship between primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) and demyelinating diseases is still not well understood. These diseases seem to coexist amidst autoimmunity, raising questions about clinical characteristics, relationship with immunomodulatory treatment, and possible common immunological background underlying their pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE: calculate the frequency of dry oral and ocular manifestations and autoantibodies characteristic of primary Sjögren's Syndrome in Multiple Sclerosis. METHODS: 202 patients with multiple sclerosis answered a questionnaire to identify complaints of xerostomia and xerophthalmia, according to diagnostic criteria for primary Sjögren's syndrome; 43 answered positively to at least one question; 27 had comorbidities or used drugs that cause dry symptoms and were excluded; 16 patients were selected for examinations for oral, ocular and serum anti-Ro/SS-A autoantibody evaluation. RESULTS: Eleven (68.75%) patients complained of xerostomia; 14 (87.5%) of xerophthalmia. Sialometry < 0.1 ml/min was observed in three (18.8%); 13 patients underwent minor salivary gland biopsy and histopathological examination: focal score > 1 in three (23.1%). Schirmer test was < 5 mm/5 min in four (25%). Lyssamine green/fluorescein dye score was > 5 in three (18.8%). Anti-Ro/SS-A > 10 UI/mm in two (12.5%). Three (1,49%) patients met current criteria for primary Sjögren's syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with MS may report xerostomia and/or xerophthalmia even in the absence of comorbidities and use of medications capable of causing these symptoms, which may fulfill the diagnostic criteria for pSS. In this study, the frequency of pSS according to current criteria was within the range observed in the literature with older criteria. But the question remains whether the association between these diseases is fortuitous or whether there is a pathogenic link.

Stress and substance abuse among workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in an intensive care unit: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Professionals working in intensive care units (ICUs) during the COVID-19 pandemic have been exposed to stressful situations and increased workload. The association between symptoms of traumatic stress disorders, substance abuse and personal/occupational characteristics of Brazilian COVID-19-ICU workers is still to be addressed. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence of those conditions and to find if those associations exist. METHODS: In this observational, single-center, cross-sectional study, all professionals working in a COVID-19 ICU were invited to fill an anonymous form containing screening tools for traumatic stress disorders and substance abuse, and a section with questions regarding personal and occupational information. RESULTS: Three hundred seventy-six ICU professionals participated. Direct exposure to patients infected by COVID-19, history of relatives infected by COVID-19, and sex (female) were significantly associated with signs and symptoms of traumatic stress disorders. 76.5% of the participants had scores compatible with a diagnosis of traumatic stress disorders. Moreover, the prevalence of scores suggestive of Tobacco and Alcohol abuse were 11.7% and 24.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION: ICU workers had significantly elevated scores on both screening forms. Providing psycho-social support to ICU professionals may prevent future problems with traumatic stress disorders or substance abuse.

Risk Assessment for Activity Regulated Under the Human Tissue Act: A Single Institution Experience.

Risk assessment represents one of the requirements for all activities involving human tissues within the premises. Although a variety of procedures are available to prepare risk assessments in general, there are no published examples of risks associated with the use of human samples in research. To cover this gap and to give an overview of the evaluation performed in our institution, we summarized the potential risks for the use of human samples in research identified in the projects under the remit of the UCL/UCLH Biobank. The procedures of acquisition, transportation, storage, use, and disposal of human samples, and security of the premises were analyzed. From our experience, there are governance-related risks associated with the process of consenting the patients, with the donor confidentiality, with mislabeling of samples and with the ethical approval associated with the project, and they generally do not compromise the integrity of the samples. On the other hand, samples' integrity is more at risk during collection, storage, transport, and use of the sample. Adequate training and having appropriate standard procedures in place and available for all staff seem to be the most effective control measures to prevent any issue. In addition, appropriate equipment maintenance, contingency plans, and strict regulation and monitoring of the facility security should always be in place. In summary, an appropriate evaluation of the risks associated with the use of human samples in research is one of the requirements for the use of human samples in research and it is fundamental for the protection of staff, students, the institution itself, and the patients. Supporting biobanking, implementing a culture of biosafety in the life sciences, and raising awareness in the scientific and regulatory communities are key ways to anticipate future problems associated with biological and governance risks.

Acquired oral syphilis: A multicenter study of 339 patients from South America.

OBJECTIVE: To report the clinicopathologic features of acquired oral syphilis cases in South American countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical data were retrospectively collected from the records of 18 oral diagnostic services in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Venezuela, Uruguay, and Peru. Serologies of nontreponemal and treponemal tests were used for diagnosis. RESULTS: The series comprised 339 cases of acquired oral syphilis. Secondary syphilis ranked as the most common stage (86.7%). Lesions were more frequent among males (58.0%) and young adults with a mean age of 33.3 years. Individuals aged 20-29 years were most affected (35.3%). The most commonly involved sites were the tongue (31.6%), lip/labial commissure (25.1%), and hard/soft palate (20.4%). Clinically, acquired oral syphilis usually presented as mucous patches (28.4%), papules (25.7%), and ulcers (18.1%). Skin manifestations occurred in 67.7% of individuals, while lymphadenopathy and fever were observed in 61.3% and 11.6% of all subjects, respectively. Most patients were treated with the benzathine penicillin G antibiotic. CONCLUSION: This report validates the spread of acquired oral syphilis infection among young adults in South America. Our directives include accessible diagnostic tools for proper disease screening, surveillance, and counselling of affected individuals, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Saúde materna, vulnerabilidade e vulneração: memórias de mulheres do nordeste brasileiro que vivenciaram a morte de perto / Maternal health, vulnerability and violation: memories of women from the northeast of Brazil who have had near-death experiences / Salud materna, vulnerabilidad y vulneración: memorias de mujeres del nordeste brasileño que vieron la muerte de cerca

Experiências de complicações graves na gravidez podem revelar questões negligenciadas ou despercebidas no cuidado prestado. O objetivo deste estudo é compreender tais questões por meio das memórias de mulheres do interior do nordeste brasileiro que vivenciaram tais episódios. Para tanto, foi realizada pesquisa qualitativa mediante entrevistas semiestruturadas e análise de conteúdo, ancorada no Interacionismo Simbólico. Aponta-se uma avaliação negativa das mulheres quanto aos cuidados recebidos durante a gravidez. As cicatrizes dolorosas acompanham o cotidiano dessas mulheres, que seguem dilaceradas por consequências psicológicas, físicas e emocionais. Espera-se incitar reflexões urgentes e críticas entre os diferentes atores e instituições envolvidos na temática para impedir que mulheres sejam submetidas a situações iníquas e evitáveis de sofrimento, vulnerabilidade e vulneração, como vem ocorrendo.(AU)

Experiences of severe pregnancy complications can reveal issues that have been neglected or overlooked during care. The aim of this study was to understand these issues from the memories of women living in the northeast of Brazil who have been through this experience. We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and content analysis anchored in symbolic interactionism theory. The findings show that the women had a negative perception of the care received during pregnancy. The women carry painful scars and remain torn apart by the psychological, physical, and emotional consequences of their experiences. It is hoped that the findings of this study prompt urgent critical reflection by the different actors and institutions involved in this process in order help prevent women from being subjected to iniquitous and avoidable suffering, vulnerability and violation.(AU)

Experiencias de complicaciones graves en el embarazo pueden revelar cuestiones desconsideradas o desapercibidas en el cuidado prestado. El objetivo de este estudio es comprender tales cuestiones por medio de las memorias de mujeres del interior del nordeste brasileño que vivieron esos episodios. Para ello, se realizó una investigación cualitativa mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas y análisis de contenido, anclada en el Interaccionismo Simbólico. Se señala una evaluación negativa de las mujeres con relación a los cuidados recibidos durante el embarazo. Las cicatrices dolorosas acompañan el cotidiano de esas mujeres que siguen dilaceradas por consecuencias psicológicas, físicas y emocionales. Se espera incitar reflexiones urgentes y críticas entre los diferentes actores e instituciones envueltos en la temática, para impedir que las mujeres sean sometidas a situaciones injustas y evitables de sufrimiento, vulnerabilidad y vulneración, como viene sucediendo.(AU)

Cuidados paliativos e comunicação: uma reflexão à luz da teoria do final de vida pacífico / Palliative care and communication: a reflection in the light of the peaceful end of life theory / Cuidados paliativos y comunicación: una reflexión a la luz de la teoría del final pacífico de la vida

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a contribuição do cuidado de enfermagem, com ênfase na comunicação, para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos na fase terminal e seus familiares. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado em um Hospital Filantrópico da cidade de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, em 2019, desenvolvido com 15 familiares de pacientes em cuidados paliativos, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo, proposta por Bardin, à luz da Teoria do Final de Vida Pacífico. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: 'A comunicação dos profissionais de enfermagem como estratégia para promover conforto, paz, dignidade e respeito para pacientes e familiares em cuidados paliativos'; 'A presença e o diálogo de pessoas importantes para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos são fundamentais para um final de vida pacífico.' Conclusão: espera-se que, através desse estudo, seja possível aprimorar a assistência à família acerca da comunicação nos cuidados paliativos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the contribution of nursing care, with emphasis on communication, for the patient under palliative care in the terminal phase and their families. Method: qualitative study, conducted in a Philanthropic Hospital in the city of João Pessoa-PB, Brazil, in 2019, developed with 15 family members of patients in palliative care, through semi-structured interviews. The data were submitted to content analysis, proposed by Bardin, in the light of the Pacific End of Life Theory. Results: two categories emerged: 'Communication by nursing professionals as a strategy to promote comfort, peace, dignity and respect for patients and families in palliative care'; 'The presence and dialogue of people important to the patient under palliative care are fundamental for a peaceful end of life.' Conclusion: it is hoped that, through this study, it will be possible to improve assistance to the family about communication in palliative care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la contribución de los cuidados de enfermería, con énfasis en la comunicación, para el paciente en cuidados paliativos en fase terminal y sus familias. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un Hospital Filantrópico de la ciudad de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, en 2019, desarrollado con 15 familiares de pacientes en cuidados paliativos, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los datos fueron sometidos a un análisis de contenido, propuesto por Bardin, a la luz de la Teoría del Final Tranquilo de la Vida. Resultados: surgieron dos categorías: "La comunicación de los profesionales de enfermería como estrategia para promover el confort, la paz, la dignidad y el respeto a los pacientes y familiares en los cuidados paliativos"; "La presencia y el diálogo de las personas importantes para el paciente en los cuidados paliativos son fundamentales para un final de vida tranquilo". Conclusión: se espera que, a través de este estudio, sea posible mejorar la asistencia a la familia sobre la comunicación en los cuidados paliativos.