Detection of Waterborne and Airborne Microorganisms in a Rodent Facility.

This study aimed to evaluate the air and water contamination level and to identify the microbes isolated from a rodent facility located at the Federal University of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Colony forming units (CFU) per milliliter was used for monitoring water quantitatively; CFU per cubic meter was used for air monitoring. The isolated colonies were identified for qualitative monitoring. Due to absence of specific parameters for these facilities, the results were analyzed according to Brazilian and international standards, depending on which best suited each sample. The mean total number of microorganisms in water ranged from 0.015 ± 0.02 to 0.999 ± 0.91 CFU/mL. The number of microorganisms in air ranged from 9.1 ± 4.6 to 351.56 ± 158.2 CFU/m³. Forty-one microorganisms identified in the samples obtained from the rodent facility were potentially pathogenic or opportunistic for animals and humans (e.g., Corynebacterium spp.). We concluded that the water and air samples were contaminated with potentially pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms that can harm rodents and humans. On the basis of our observations, specific sanitary standards suitable for these facilities should be developed for controlling microbial contamination, which will prevent zoonosis and ensure the reliability of scientific results obtained from animal experiments.

Chalcones with potential antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against periodontopathogenic bacteria.

OBJECTIVES: Periodontitis is a pathology resulting from complex interaction of microorganisms in the dental biofilm with the host's immune system. Increased use of antibiotics associated with their inappropriate use has increased resistance levels in anaerobic bacteria. Therefore, identifying new antimicrobial compounds, such as chalcones, is urgent. This study evaluates the antibacterial activity and the antibiofilm activity of 15 chalcones against the periodontopathogenic bacteria Prevotella nigrescens (ATCC 33563), P. oralis (ATCC 33269), Peptostreptococcus anaerobius (ATCC 27337), Actinomyces viscosus (ATCC 43146), Porphyromonas asaccharolytica (ATCC 25260), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (ATCC 25586). METHODS: The compounds were evaluated by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) tests. RESULTS: Compounds 1-6 showed good antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against most of the evaluated bacteria: MIC was lower than or equal to 6.25 µg/mL, biofilm biomass was reduced by 95%, and the compounds at concentrations between 0.78 and 100 µg/mL totally inhibited cell viability. Among the tested chalcones, 3 stood out: it was effective against all the bacteria, as revealed by the MIC and MBIC results. CONCLUSIONS: Our results have consolidated a base for the development of new studies on the effects of the tested chalcones as agents to combat and to prevent periodontitis.

Prediction model to discriminate leptospirosis from hantavirus.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to build a prediction model to discriminate precociously hantavirus infection from leptospirosis, identifying the conditions and risk factors associated with these diseases. METHODS: A logistic regression model in which the response variable was the presence of hantavirus or leptospirosis was adjusted. RESULTS: As a result, the method selected the following variables that influenced the prediction formula: sociodemographic variables, clinical manifestations, and exposure to environmental risks. All variables considered in the model presented statistical significance with a p<0.05 value. The accuracy of the model to differentiate hantavirus from leptospirosis was 88.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Concluding that the development of statistical tools with high potential to predict the disease, and thus differentiate them precociously, can reduce hospital costs, speed up the patient's care, reduce morbidity and mortality, and assist health professionals and public managers in decision-making.

Learning curve for the laparoscopy-guided kidney biopsy procedure in small corpses of dogs and pigs.

The use of renal biopsy through laparoscopy is increasingly present both in human and veterinary medicine. However, both techniques require skill and training to make the operator capable to do it. The learning curve allows the quantitative and qualitative assessment of the number of attempts and minimum time for the surgical procedure. The objective included establish the learning curve for laparoscopy-guided kidney biopsy procedures in dog and pig corpses. Six dogs and six pigs corpses weighing less than 10 kg were used for this study. All corpses underwent kidney biopsy performed through laparoscopy. Twenty-four operators, two per animal, performed 20 renal biopsies each (10 for each kidney), with 480 collection-procedures in total. Duration and difficulty of the procedure and the biopsy sample quality were evaluated and statistical analysis was performed using a mixed regression model with a random effect of individuals and multivariate analysis of data. There were 91.5% of the samples that were adequate for evaluation. There was no significant difference in the number of glomeruli or cortex percentage considering the attempts in either species, demonstrating the operator's ability since first collection. Swine samples showed higher amounts of renal cortex than canine samples. The procedure duration was shorter as more attempts were performed in dogs and pigs. From the fourth repetition, the professional reached a plateau for the variable related to 'collection', and from the second, the professional presented uniform duration for 'sample storage'. Operators of the swine model acquired more agility than the dog ones. The variable 'difficulty' decreased as more repetitions were performed, reaching a plateau in the sixth attempt. Seven renal biopsies laparoscopy-guided are required for an operator to be considered 'capable' to perform the procedure in the referred species included. The learning curve for image-guided kidney biopsy procedures improves the implementation of this technique and benefits patients that undergo this procedure.

Relationship between executive functions and bullying: an integrative literature review / Relações entre funções executivas e bullying: revisão integrativa da literatura / Relaciones entre funciones ejecutivas y bullying: una revisión integradora

Executive functions are cognitive skills required to perform complex, adaptive, and socially acceptable behaviors. The existence of deficits in these functions may imply behavioral problems and violence. Thus, the objective of this integrative review of the literature was to identify relationships between executive functions and school bullying. The keywords "executive functions" and "bullying" were cross-referenced in the databases: LILACS, PsycINFO, ScieELO, Scopus and Web of Science. The methodological quality of the investigations was evaluated through the Checklist for Analytical Cross Sectional Studies. Among the 22 identified studies, seven met the inclusion criteria and were selected. All studies analyzed identified associations between practicing or suffering bullying with deficits in executive functions. It was concluded that the improvement of the executive functions of the students can help in the prevention or reduction of school bullying.

Funções executivas são habilidades cognitivas necessárias à realização de comportamentos complexos, adaptativos e socialmente aceitáveis. A existência de deficits nessas funções pode implicar problemas comportamentais e violência. Assim, o objetivo desta revisão integrativa da literatura foi identificar relações entre funções executivas e bullying escolar. Realizou-se o cruzamento das palavras-chave executive functions e bullying nas bases de dados: Lilacs, PsycInfo, SciELO, Scopus e Web of Science. A qualidade metodológica das investigações foi avaliada por meio do Checklistfor Analytical Cross Sectional Studies. Dentre os 22 estudos identificados, sete atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e foram selecionados. Todos os estudos analisados identificaram associações entre praticar ou sofrer bullying com déficits nas funções executivas. Concluiu-se que a melhoria das funções executivas dos estudantes pode auxiliar na prevenção ou redução do bullying escolar.

Las funciones ejecutivas son habilidades cognitivas necesarias para realizar comportamientos complejos, adaptativos y socialmente aceptables. La existencia de déficit en estas funciones puede implicar problemas conductuales y violencia. Así, el objetivo de esta revisión integradora de la literatura fue identificar relaciones entre funciones ejecutivas y bullying escolar. Se realizó el cruce de las palabras clave executive functions y bullying en las bases de datos: Lilacs, PsycInfo, SciELO, Scopus y Web of Science. La calidad metodológica de las investigaciones fue evaluada a través del Checklist for Analytical Cross Sectional Studies. Entre los 22 estudios identificados, siete atendieron a los criterios de inclusión y fueron seleccionados. Todos los estúdios analizados identificaron asociaciones entre practicar o sufrir bullying con déficits em las funciones ejecutivas. La mejora de las funciones ejecutivas puede auxiliar en la prevención o reducción del bullying escolar.

Prediction model to discriminate leptospirosis from hantavirus

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to build a prediction model to discriminate precociously hantavirus infection from leptospirosis, identifying the conditions and risk factors associated with these diseases. METHODS: A logistic regression model in which the response variable was the presence of hantavirus or leptospirosis was adjusted. RESULTS: As a result, the method selected the following variables that influenced the prediction formula: sociodemographic variables, clinical manifestations, and exposure to environmental risks. All variables considered in the model presented statistical significance with a p<0.05 value. The accuracy of the model to differentiate hantavirus from leptospirosis was 88.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Concluding that the development of statistical tools with high potential to predict the disease, and thus differentiate them precociously, can reduce hospital costs, speed up the patient's care, reduce morbidity and mortality, and assist health professionals and public managers in decision-making.

Prevalência da obesidade e risco cardiovascular associado numa zona de saúde rural / Prevalence of obesity and associated cardiovascular risk in a rural health area

Existem dados sobre uma evolução crescente da prevalência da obesidade na população espanhola desde 1987. Este trabalho analisa a prevalência da obesidade numa população rural pertencente à Zona Básica de Saúde de Talavera la Real, na província de Badajoz tendo sido incluídos no estudo 132 dos 664 doentes pertencentes à população. Nos resultados obtidos, no estudo, quase 80% da população estudada tem problemas de excesso de peso e obesidade e foram encontradas diferenças significativas (P<0.001) em função da idade, do estado civil e do nível sociocultural da população. No decorrer do Mestrado de Enfermagem Comunitária, e em consonância com a Estratégia para a Abordagem da Cronicidade no Sistema Nacional de Saúde Español, foi decidido realizar um projeto de intervenção comunitária sobre esta comunidade utilizando a Metodologia do Planeamento em Saúde como ponto chave da sua estruturação, e através do qual, poderemos observar se as intervenções desenhadas foram eficazes. Este relatório pretende descrever todo o percurso desde o diagnóstico até à intervenção efetuada e respectiva avaliação.

There are data on an increasing evolution of the prevalence of obesity in the Spanish population since 1987. This work analyses the prevalence of obesity in a rural population belonging to the Basic Health Zone of Talavera la Real, in the province of Badajoz, included in the study,132 out of the 664 patients belonging to the population. As for the results obtained in the study, 80% of the population studied has problems of overweight and obesity, finding significant differences (P<0.001) depending on the age, marital status and sociocultural level of the population. In the Master's course in Community Nursing, and in accordance with the Strategy for the approach of the Chronoty of the National System of Spanish Sude, it was decided to carry out a community intervention project on this community using the Health Planning Methodology as a key point of its structuring, and through which, we will be able to observe if the interventions designed were effective. This document aims to describe all the work carried out, from the diagnosis to the intervention carried out and its respective evaluation.

Assessment of the antibacterial, antivirulence, and action mechanism of Copaifera pubiflora oleoresin and isolated compounds against oral bacteria.

The microorganisms that constitute the oral microbiome can cause oral diseases, including dental caries and endodontic infections. The use of natural products could help to overcome bacterial resistance to the antimicrobials that are currently employed in clinical therapy. This study assessed the antimicrobial activity of the Copaifera pubiflora oleoresin and of the compounds isolated from this resin against oral bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays provided values ranging from 6.25 to > 400 µg/mL for the C. pubiflora oleoresin and its isolated compounds. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) assay showed that the oleoresin and chlorhexidine did not act synergistically. All the tested bacterial strains formed biofilms. MICB50 determination revealed inhibitory action: values varied from 3.12-25 µg/mL for the oleoresin, and from 0.78 to 25 µg/mL for the ent-hardwickiic acid. Concerning biofilm eradication, the C. pubiflora oleoresin and hardwickiic acid eradicated 99.9 % of some bacterial biofilms. Acid resistance determination showed that S. mutans was resistant to acid in the presence of the oleoresin and ent-hardwickiic acid at pH 4.0, 4.5, and 5.0 at all the tested concentrations. Analysis of DNA/RNA and protein release by the cell membrane demonstrated that the oleoresin and hardwiickic acid damaged the bacterial membrane irreversibly, which affected membrane integrity. Therefore, the C. pubiflora oleoresin and ent-hardwickiic acid have potential antibacterial effect and can be used as new therapeutic alternatives to treat oral diseases such as dental caries and endodontic infections.

Molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities of curcumin on Biomphalaria glabrata and Schistosoma mansoni cercariae.

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis control in endemic areas depends on several factors, including chemotherapy, snail control and adequate sanitation. In this context, the employment of compounds isolated from plants is an important issue regarding infection and snail control. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effects of curcumin (CUR), a compound isolated from Curcuma longa, against snails and embryos of Biomphalaria glabrata, which is the most important intermediate host of schistosomiasis in the Americas, as well as in cercariae, the infecting larval stage of Schistosoma mansoni. RESULTS: CUR presented high activity against B. glabrata embryos and moderate activity against newborn and adult snails. The lethal concentration (LC50 ) values after being exposed for 24 h and evaluated for 7 days were 6.54 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.86-7.30) µg mL-1 for the embryos and 42.29 (95% CI 33.82-52.87) µg mL-1 and 87.69 (95% CI 68.82-111.7) µg mL-1 for the newborn and adult snails, respectively. Moreover, CUR inhibited the development of embryos and egg hatching, and decreased the fecundity rates of adult snails. CUR also demonstrated cercaricidal activity with LC50 values lower than 10 µg mL-1 at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 h, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our data show that CUR has potential molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities. Moreover, as a nutraceutical compound that is toxic to both invertebrate host and parasite, CUR has the potential to be explored as a safe new agent to combat schistosomiasis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Implementation of a Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional (BALANCE) Program for improvement on quality of diet and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events: A randomized, multicenter trial

Background Complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with higher ischemic risk, which can be mitigated by long-term dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). However, concomitant high bleeding risk (HBR) may be present, making it unclear whether short- or long-term DAPT should be prioritized. Objectives This study investigated the effects of ischemic (by PCI complexity) and bleeding (by PRECISE-DAPT [PRE dicting bleeding Complications in patients undergoing stent Implantation and Sub sequent Dual Anti Platelet Therapy] score) risks on clinical outcomes and on the impact of DAPT duration after coronary stenting. Methods Complex PCI was defined as ≥3 stents implanted and/or ≥3 lesions treated, bifurcation stenting and/or stent length >60 mm, and/or chronic total occlusion revascularization. Ischemic and bleeding outcomes in high (≥25) or non-high (<25) PRECISE-DAPT strata were evaluated based on randomly allocated duration of DAPT. Results Among 14,963 patients from 8 randomized trials, 3,118 underwent complex PCI and experienced a higher rate of ischemic, but not bleeding, events. Long-term DAPT in non-HBR patients reduced ischemic events in both complex (absolute risk difference: −3.86%; 95% confidence interval: −7.71 to +0.06) and noncomplex PCI strata (absolute risk difference: −1.14%; 95% confidence interval: −2.26 to −0.02), but not among HBR patients, regardless of complex PCI features. The bleeding risk according to the Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction scale was increased by long-term DAPT only in HBR patients, regardless of PCI complexity. Conclusions Patients who underwent complex PCI had a higher risk of ischemic events, but benefitted from long-term DAPT only if HBR features were not present. These data suggested that when concordant, bleeding, more than ischemic risk, should inform decision-making on the duration of DAPT. (AU)

Apoio e rede social no contexto urbano: percepções de mães de crianças prematuras / Support and social network in the urban context: Perceptions of mothers of premature children

Pesquisa transversal de abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa com objetivo de analisar pelo referencial da Promoção da Saúde a percepção de apoio e rede social no contexto urbano. Aplicou-se escala de MOS-SSS e um questionário a 75 mães de crianças com até 24 meses de idade, nascidas prematuras e seguidas em ambulatório especializado de crianças de risco. A rede social da maioria tem no máximo três pessoas, sendo que 33% não tem amigos. A dimensão afetiva da família foi o apoio mais percebido (86,66%). Da cidade de moradia apontaram potencialidades (família, acesso aos serviços de saúde, segurança) e fragilidades (lazer, áreas públicas), elementos que subsidiam a implementação de ações e políticas em Promoção da Saúde. Conclui-se que a percepção positiva do apoio e rede social no contexto urbano, além de favorecer o desenvolvimento e qualidade de vida dos prematuros, infere um alto suporte social, quesito necessário para um município saudável.

Cross-sectional research of a quantitative and qualitative approach with the objective of analyzing, through the Health Promotion referential, the perception of support and social network in the urban context. A MOS-SSS scale and a questionnaire were applied to 75 mothers of children up to 24 months of age, born prematurely and followed up in a specialized clinic of risk children. The social network of the majority has a maximum of three people, and 33% have no friends. The affective dimension of the family was the most perceived support (86.66%). From the city of housing they pointed out potentialities (family, access to health services, safety) and fragilities (leisure, public areas) which support the implementation of Health Promotion actions and policies. It is concluded that social network in the urban context, besides promoting the development and quality of life of premature infants, infers a high social support, necessary for a healthy municipality.

Apoio e rede social no contexto urbano: percepções de mães de crianças prematuras / Support and social network in the urban context: Perceptions of mothers of premature children

Pesquisa transversal de abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa com objetivo de analisar pelo referencial da Promoção da Saúde a percepção de apoio e rede social no contexto urbano. Aplicou-se escala de MOS-SSS e um questionário a 75 mães de crianças com até 24 meses de idade, nascidas prematuras e seguidas em ambulatório especializado de crianças de risco. A rede social da maioria tem no máximo três pessoas, sendo que 33% não tem amigos. A dimensão afetiva da família foi o apoio mais percebido (86,66%). Da cidade de moradia apontaram potencialidades (família, acesso aos serviços de saúde, segurança) e fragilidades (lazer, áreas públicas), elementos que subsidiam a implementação de ações e políticas em Promoção da Saúde. Conclui-se que a percepção positiva do apoio e rede social no contexto urbano, além de favorecer o desenvolvimento e qualidade de vida dos prematuros, infere um alto suporte social, quesito necessário para um município saudável.

Cross-sectional research of a quantitative and qualitative approach with the objective of analyzing, through the Health Promotion referential, the perception of support and social network in the urban context. A MOS-SSS scale and a questionnaire were applied to 75 mothers of children up to 24 months of age, born prematurely and followed up in a specialized clinic of risk children. The social network of the majority has a maximum of three people, and 33% have no friends. The affective dimension of the family was the most perceived support (86.66%). From the city of housing they pointed out potentialities (family, access to health services, safety) and fragilities (leisure, public areas) which support the implementation of Health Promotion actions and policies. It is concluded that social network in the urban context, besides promoting the development and quality of life of premature infants, infers a high social support, necessary for a healthy municipality.

Antibacterial, Preservative, and Mutagenic Potential of Copaifera spp. Oleoresins Against Causative Agents of Foodborne Diseases.

Foodborne diseases (FBDs) are a serious public health concern worldwide. In this scenario, preservatives based on natural products, especially plants, have attracted researchers' attention because they offer potential antimicrobial action as well as reduced health impact. The genus Copaifera spp., which is native of tropical South America and West Africa, contains several species for which pharmacological activities, including antibacterial effects, have been described. On the basis of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), antibiofilm activity (inhibition and eradication), preservative capacity, and Ames test, we evaluated the antibacterial, preservative, and mutagenic potential of Copaifera spp. oleoresins against the causative agents of FBDs. The Copaifera duckei, Copaifera reticulata, Copaifera paupera, and Copaifera pubiflora oleoresins displayed promising MIC/MBC values-from 12.5 to 100 µg/mL-against Staphylococcus aureus (American Type Culture Collection [ATCC] 29213), Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 15313), and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 14579). C. duckei, C. reticulata, C. paupera, and C. pubiflora oleoresin concentrations ranging from 25 to 200 µg/mL and from 100 to 400 µg/mL inhibited biofilm formation and eradicated biofilms, respectively. The oleoresins did not exert mutagenic effects and had superior food preservative action to sodium benzoate (positive control). In conclusion, Copaifera oleoresins exhibit potential antibacterial activity and are not mutagenic, which makes them a promising source to develop novel natural food preservatives to inhibit foodborne pathogens.

Análise multivariada da esquistossomose no estado de Minas Gerais: análise de componentes principais / Multivariate analysis of schistosomiasis in the state of Minas Gerais: principal component analysis

INTRODUÇÃO: A esquistossomose mansônica é uma doença negligenciada no Brasil, logo, relacionada à pobreza e ausência de condições sanitárias. Ocorre na região litorânea do nordeste e se interioriza a partir do estado da Bahia, chegando a Minas Gerais. OBJETIVO: Agrupar, por meio da análise de componentes principais, as principais variáveis relacionadas à esquistossomose em fatores que possam explicar a variância dos dados. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliadas as notificações de esquistossomose entre os anos de 2007 a 2014, considerando a média por 100 mil habitantes. As variáveis: educação, saúde, economia, infraestrutura e saneamento, População, altimetria e Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano (IDH), foram obtidas no Atlas Brasil; os dados das notificações de esquistossomose foram obtidos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos e Notificação (SINAN). A análise estatística foi realizada a partir da análise de componentes principais, visando identificar os principais fatores que contribuem de forma mais significativa, com a variância dos dados. RESULTADOS: Considerando os critérios propostos, três fatores explicaram mais de 76% da variância, sendo o primeiro relacionado às variáveis: taxa de analfabetismo em 18 anos ou mais, sem ensino fundamental, mortalidade infantil, extremamente pobre, vulnerável a pobreza, esgotamento sanitário inadequado e população rural. O segundo foi relacionado à variável esgotamento sanitário e o terceiro fator à variável altitude. CONCLUSÃO: As variáveis associadas aos fatores, principalmente aquelas pautadas nos determinantes sociais de saúde, demonstram uma forte relação com a ocorrência da esquistossomose. A contribuição do estudo nos remete a possibilidade de agrupar variáveis em fatores que comportam de forma sinérgica e favorecem a incidência da parasitose.

INTRODUCTION: Schistosomiasis mansoni is a neglected disease in Brazil, therefore, related to poverty and lack of sanitary conditions. Occurs in the coastal region of the northeast and spreads inland from the state of Bahia, reaching Minas Gerais. OBJECTIVE: To group, through component analysis, the main variables related to schistosomiasis in factors that may explain data variance. METHODS: Reports of schistosomiasis between the years 2007 to 2014 were evaluated, considering averages per 100 thousand inhabitants. The variables: education, health, economy, infrastructure and sanitation, population, altimetry and Human Development Index (HDI), were obtained from Atlas Brazil; the schistosomiasis notification data were obtained from the injury and notification information system (SINAN). Statistical analysis was based on the analysis of main components, aiming to identify the key factors that contribute most significantly to data variance. RESULTS: Considering the proposed criteria, three factors explained more than 76% of the variance, the first one related to the following variables: illiteracy rate at 18 years of age or more, no elementary education, child mortality, extremely poor, vulnerable to poverty, inadequate sanitary sewage and rural population. The second was related to the sanitary sewage variable and the third factor to the altitude variable. CONCLUSION: The variables associated with factors, especially those based on the social determinants of health; show a strong relation with the occurrence of schistosomiasis. The contribution of the study reminds us of the possibility of grouping variables into factors that behave synergistically and favor the incidence of parasitosis.

Fungal biofilms in the hemodialysis environment.

Hemodialysis, which is a kidney failure treatment that uses hemodialysis machine, dialyzer, dialysis solution, catheters, and needles, favors biofilm formation. This study evaluates whether Aspergillus, Candida, and Fusarium can form biofilm in dialysis fluids. Biofilms were grown in 96-well microplates containing solutions (acid and basic) consisting of dialysate, dialysate per se, or dialysate plus glucose as culture medium. The biofilms were incubated at 30 °C for 72 h, quantified by the violet crystal methodology, and visualized by transmission electron microscopy. All the fungi formed biomass in all the tested solutions. However, Bonferroni analysis revealed that the dialysate facilitated Aspergillus biomass development, whereas the dialysate and dialysate with glucose provided similar Fusarium oxysporum biomass development. Candida parapsilosis development was favored in biofilms grown in basic electrolytic solution. Electron micrographs of biofilms that grew on catheters after 72 h showed that Aspergillus formed abundant hyphae; the extracellular matrix was visible on the surface of some hyphae when Aspergillus was grown in the dialysate. A multilayered hyphal structure emerged when F. oxysporum biofilms were incubated in the dialysate with glucose. C. parapsilosis biofilm growth in basic solution elicited a dense network of yeasts and pseudohyphae as well as the extracellular matrix; the biofilm was attached across the catheter length. This study may contribute to the formulation of new strategies to monitor biofilm formation and to increase knowledge associated with fungal biofilms in the dialysis environment.

Bilayers of Janus and homogeneous particle mixtures trapped at an air/water interface.

We study mixtures of amphiphilic Janus and homogeneous hydrophobic particles trapped at an air/water interface. In contrast to an expected monolayer formation, bilayers of colloidal particles are produced. Despite their strong interfacial adsorption, Janus particles form the upper layer. They are not placed on top of the other particles but rather shifted about one-third of the particle diameter. To understand the mechanism of bilayer formation, particle behaviour at the surface and in the bulk of the spreading solvent is considered. The vertical shift and the bilayer formation are assisted by the momentous formation of two interfaces during spreading.

An education program about pelvic floor muscles improved women's knowledge but not pelvic floor muscle function, urinary incontinence or sexual function: a randomised trial.

QUESTION: Does an educational program with instructions for performing 'the Knack' improve voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, reduce reports of urinary incontinence, improve sexual function, and promote women's knowledge of the pelvic floor muscles? DESIGN: Randomised, controlled trial with concealed allocation, intention-to-treat analysis and blinded assessors. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-nine women from the local community. INTERVENTION: The experimental group (n=50) received one lecture per week for 4 weeks, and instructions for performing 'the Knack'. The control group (n=49) received no intervention. OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome was maximum voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles measured using manometry. Secondary outcomes were: ability to contract the pelvic floor muscles measured using vaginal palpation; severity of urinary incontinence measured by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) scored from 0 to 21; self-reported sexual function; and knowledge related to the pelvic floor. Outcomes were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks. RESULTS: The intervention did not significantly improve: maximum voluntary contraction (MD 2.7 cmH2O higher in the experimental group, 95% CI -0.5 to 5.9); ability to contract the pelvic floor muscles (RR 2.18, 95% CI 0.49 to 9.65); or self-reported severity of urinary incontinence (MD 1 point greater reduction in the experimental group, 95% CI -3 to 1). Sexual function did not significantly differ between groups, but very few of the women engaged in sexual activity during the study period. The educational program did, however, significantly increase women's knowledge related to the location, functions and dysfunctions of the pelvic floor muscles, and treatment options. CONCLUSION: Education and teaching women to perform 'the Knack' had no significant effect on voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, urinary incontinence or sexual function, but it promoted women's knowledge about the pelvic floor. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, RBR-95sxqv. [de Andrade RL, Bø K, Antonio FI, Driusso P, Mateus-Vasconcelos ECL, Ramos S, Julio MP, Ferreira CHJ (2018) An education program about pelvic floor muscles improved women's knowledge but not pelvic floor muscle function, urinary incontinence or sexual function: a randomised trial. Journal of Physiotherapy 64: 91-96].

Use of Copaifera multijuga for acute corneal repair after chemical injury: A clinical, histopathological and toxicogenetic study.

Copaiba oil is widely used in medicine, but there are no reports regarding its application in ophthalmology. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical, histopathological and toxicogenetic effects of eye drops containing 0.1 and 0.5% of Copaifera multijuga Hayne oil on superficial corneal ulcers induced with alkali in the left eye of rats. For histological analysis, the percent reduction in ulcers and thickness of the corneal epithelium and stroma were evaluated 48 and 72 h after ulcer induction. Additionally, neovascularization and polymorphonuclear infiltration were classified in the stroma. The bone marrow micronucleus test was used for toxicogenetic assessment. None of the animals exhibited clinical signs of immediate ocular discomfort after instillation and the eye drops were harmless to the ocular surface. There was a significant difference in percent ulcer reduction and corneal stroma thickness between animals treated with the C. multijuga eye drops and untreated animals with corneal injury and the negative control, respectively, suggesting a healing effect of the oleoresin. Analysis of the thickness of the corneal epithelium at the two time points showed that the eye drops formulated did not significantly reduce the damage caused by alkali. The same was observed for the treatments with the reference drugs. No difference in stromal neovascularization or inflammatory infiltration was observed between the treated groups. The toxicogenetic results revealed the absence of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the treatments. In conclusion, the C. multijuga eye drops did not cause damage to the ocular surface under the present experimental conditions and corneal epithelization was similar to the conventional treatments. These results indicate that eye drops containing C. multijuga oleoresin are a promising option for the treatment of superficial keratitis.

Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de pacientes com câncer de próstata / Quality of life related to the health of patients with prostate cancer / Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de los pacientes con cáncer de próstata

INTRODUÇÃO: O diagnóstico e o tratamento do câncer de próstata podem provocar modificações significativas na vida dos homens, alterando a sua qualidade de vida. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de pacientes com câncer de próstata em tratamento de hormonioterapia e radioterapia. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, transversal, com dados sociodemográficos, clínicos e de avaliação da qualidade de vida de 213 pacientes, obtidos por roteiro de entrevista e pelo questionário Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Utilizou-se estatística descritiva. RESULTADOS: Houve predominância de homens acima de 50 anos, brancos, casados, com baixa escolaridade e aposentados, com diagnóstico inicial obtido pelas alterações no exame de Antígeno Prostático Específico e estadiamento II. As médias dos escores obtidos no domínio da função sexual indicaram queda na qualidade de vida, para ambos os tratamentos. DISCUSSÃO: Tanto a hormonioterapia como a radioterapia podem causar algum tipo de efeito na função sexual, diretamente relacionado a um significativo impacto na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde para muitos homens. CONCLUSÕES: Ainda que os resultados tenham sido obtidos e analisados pela primeira vez no hospital do estudo, oferecem subsídios para o conhecimento da realidade local e corroboram com os achados de outros estudos realizados em locais e realidades diferentes.

INTRODUCTION: The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can cause significant modifications in the lives of men, altering their quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the health-related quality of life of patients with prostate cancer in hormone therapy and radiotherapy treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional study with sociodemographic, clinical data and quality of life evaluation of 213 patients, obtained from the interview script and through the questionnaire Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS: There was a predominance of white men over 50 years of age, married, with low schooling, and retirees with initial diagnosis obtained by alterations on the specific prostatic antigen test and stage II. The mean scores obtained in the sexual function domain indicated a decrease in quality of life for both treatments. DISCUSSION: Hormone therapy and radiotherapy can cause some type of type of effect on the sexual function, directly related to a significant impact on the quality of life related to health for many men. CONCLUSIONS: Although the results were obtained and analyzed for the first time in the study hospital, they offer subsidies for the knowledge of the local reality and corroborate with findings from other studies carried out in different places and realities.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El diagnóstico y el tratamiento del cáncer de próstata pueden provocar cambios significativos en la vida de los hombres, alterando su calidad de vida. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de pacientes con cáncer de próstata en tratamiento de hormonioterapia y radioterapia. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, con datos sociodemográficos, clínicos y de evaluación de la calidad de vida de 213 pacientes, obtenidos por un guión de entrevista y por el cuestionario Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. RESULTADOS: Hubo predominio de hombres mayores de 50 anos, blancos, casados, con baja escolaridad y jubilados, con diagnóstico inicial obtenido por las alteraciones en el examen de Antígeno Prostático Específico y estadio II. Las medias de las puntuaciones obtenidas en el dominio de la función sexual indicaron caída en la calidad de vida, para ambos tratamientos. DISCUSIÓN: Tanto la hormonioterapia como la radioterapia pueden causar algún tipo de efecto en la función sexual, directamente relacionado con un significativo impacto en la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud para muchos hombres. CONCLUSIONES: Aunque los resultados han sido obtenidos y analizados por primera vez en el hospital del estudio, ofrecen subsidios para el conocimiento de la realidad local y corroboran los resultados con otros estudios realizados en locales y realidades diferentes.

Estimation of genetic parameters for longevity considering the cow's age at last calving.

The aim of this study was to estimate heritability and predict breeding values for longevity among cows in herds of Nellore breed, considering the trait cow's age at last calving (ALC), by means of survival analysis methodology. The records of 11,791 animals from 22 farms were used. The variable ALC has been used by a criterion that made it possible to include cows not only at their first calving but also at their ninth calving. The criterion used was the difference between the date of each cow's last calving and the date of the last calving on each farm. If this difference was greater than 36 months, the cow was considered to have failed and uncensored. If not, this cow was censored, thus indicating that future calving remained possible for this cow. The survival model used for the analyses was the proportional hazards model, and the base risk was given by a Weibull distribution. The heritability estimate obtained was equal to 0.25. It was found that the ALC variable had the capacity to respond to selection for the purpose of increasing the longevity of the cows in the herds.