Consumption of ultra-processed products is associated with vitamin D deficiency in Brazilian adults and elderly.

Although studies show that the intake of ultra-processed products (UPP) has a negative impact on health, diet quality and dietary vitamin D, its influence on serum concentrations of this vitamin remains unknown; therefore, it is essential to verify the association between the UPP consumption and vitamin D deficiency. This is a cross-sectional, household, population-based study, carried out with 229 individuals aged 20 years or older, residents of the city of Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. Socio-demographic, lifestyle, food consumption and anthropometric data were collected. Food consumption was obtained using a 24-h food recall, and foods were grouped according to the NOVA classification. Plasma concentrations of calcidiol-25 (OH) D3 were determined by HPLC. Crude and adjusted binary logistic regression was applied to estimate the association between UPP consumption and vitamin D deficiency. Most individuals aged 20-39 years were vitamin D deficient (52·1 %). UPP contributed 19·9 % to the energetic intake of the participant's diet. This contribution was higher for individuals with vitamin D deficiency (22·5 %, P = 0·04). In addition, a high intake of UPP was associated with twice the risk of vitamin D deficiency in comparison with low consumption of UPP (OR: 2·05; CI 1·06, 4·50; P: 0·04). Our results suggest that the consumption of UPP may have a negative impact on serum concentrations of vitamin D; more studies are needed.

Nutritional, Physicochemical and Structural Parameters of Mauritia flexuosa Fruits and By-Products for Biotechnological Exploration of Sustainable Goods.

Research background: Commercialization of Mauritia flexuosa (buriti) fruits in Brazil is at an early stage. Herein, we evaluate the nutritional value of pulp, peel and endocarp samples from buriti fruits, perform macroscopic and microscopic evaluations and analyze their physicochemical properties. Experimental approach: Size and mass, pH, sugar and protein contents, soluble/insoluble fiber, total titratable acidity and energy value of the samples were analyzed. Mineral profiling was performed by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and fatty acids and phytosterols were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Samples were also submitted to differential scanning calorimetry coupled to a thermal analyzer, and microstructure, morphology, surface and viscosity were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) with copper radiation. Rheological behavior was also studied. Results and conclusions: Lyophilized pulp had higher nutritional content of minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and energy than in natura pulp. Lyophilized pulp and its by-products showed suitable yields (>17.31%) and low a w, and potassium, manganese and monounsaturated fatty acid contents. Peels showed elevated amounts of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols (ß-sitosterol and stigmasterol), and endothermic behavior. The reductions of calcium, magnesium and manganese ranging from 18.5 to 22.7% were observed following the lyophilization. Drying processes generated semi-crystalline powders. Both peels and endocarp contained higher amounts of insoluble fiber and lower contents of sugars. Similar results were obtained by microscopic morphological analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and XRD analysis. Pulp and endocarp exhibited pseudoplastic non-Newtonian behavior, and flow behavior index values were lower than 1, while peels presented dilatant behaviour. Thus, physicochemical and nutritional characterization of pulp and by-products, such as peels and endocarp, are essential to support scientific research and exploration of new sustainable products. Novelty and scientific contribution: Processing and conservation techniques, like lyophilization, maintain the good quality of nutritional contents and bioactive compounds of buriti whole fruits, and can be used to extend their shelf life, preserve alimentary characteristics and provide wider purposes and availability. Such parameters may generate income and food security for local and regional communities.

Syphilis detection rate trend in aged people: Brazil, 2011-2019.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the trend in the detection rate of syphilis in elderly people in Brazil from 2011 to 2019. METHODS: An ecological, time-series study with data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The temporal trend of syphilis detection rates was analyzed according to the Prais-Winsten linear regression method. RESULTS: 62,765 cases of syphilis in aged people were reported. There was a growing trend in the rate of syphilis detection in aged people in Brazil. The increase was of approximately six times, with a mean increase of 25% each year (annual percent change [APC]: 25.0; 95%CI 22.1-28.1). The increase in the detection rate was identified in both genders and for all age groups, with emphasis on the increase in females (APC: 49.1; 95%CI 21.9-26.8) and in the group aged 70 to 79 years old (APC: 25.8; 95%CI 23.3-28.3). All macro-regions of the country showed an increasing trend, with emphasis on the Northeast (APC: 51.2; 95%CI 43.0-59.8) and South (APC: 49.2; 95%CI 32.3-68.3). CONCLUSION: The growing trend in the detection rate of syphilis in aged people throughout Brazil highlights the need for planning and developing effective and multidisciplinary prevention actions and assistance adapted to this public.

Lifestyle associated with risk of metabolic syndrome in adults and the elderly.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to analyze the association between at least one of the risk factors for metabolic syndrome and the lifestyle of adults and elderly individuals in Teresina, Piauí. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, population-based study, with adults and elderly of both both sexes, living in Teresina, Piauí.. Data were collected using Epicollect 5 software (Imperial College London) in a mobile application (mobile). Pearson's χ2 test was used to assess the association between variables. The prevalence ratio (PR) was calculated, with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI), estimated by Poisson regression, to measure the strength of association between the study variables with the presence of at least one factor of risk for disease. The level of significance adopted was P < 0.05. RESULTS: The main habit as a protective factor for at least one risk factor for metabolic syndrome was the consumption of natural fruit juice once to three times a week (0.93), in addition to the current daily use of tobacco (raw and adjusted; 0.80) and irregularly active and active/very active physical activity level (0.86), which when adjusted increased to 0.89 in the latter activity level. The habit of drinking alcohol frequently/occasionally was 1.08 times more likely and when adjusted increased (1.10). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of at least one risk factor for this disease, according to lifestyle, deserves a warning for the population, as it is capable of harming health, especially at the level of cardiovascular impairment.

Metabolic syndrome in adolescents and antioxidant nutrient intake: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the association between metabolic syndrome and its components, and intake of antioxidant nutrients in adolescents. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study of the data of 327 adolescents in a high school in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, pertaining to their socioeconomic background, anthropometric measurements, dietary intake (selenium; copper; zinc; vitamins A, C, and E), hemodynamics, and biochemical tests. The criteria for diagnosing metabolic syndrome in adolescents were applied. Binary logistic regression was used to verify the association between metabolic syndrome and its components, and intake of antioxidants. The level of significance was established at p<0.05. RESULTS: Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 7.0%, with a significant association between body mass index and blood pressure. Lower tertiles of copper and vitamins A and E intake were associated with high triglyceride and glycemic levels. The association with vitamins A and E remained after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: A significant association between lower vitamins A and E intake and metabolic syndrome components (altered triglycerides and glycemic levels) was found. Besides further studies on this issue, the need for health interventions was found, which ensures the appropriate intake of antioxidant nutrients during adolescence.

Effects of vitamin D supplementation on the glycemic control of pre-diabetic individuals: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: research shows the potential effect of vitamin D supplementation with an improvement in the glycemic profile of pre-diabetic patients. Objective: this study evaluates the effects of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals. Methods: we analyzed studies published over the last ten years, and indexed in the Science Direct, PubMed, and LILACS databases. We searched studies using health descriptors related to vitamin D, pre-diabetes, and glycemic control markers. We considered randomized controlled trials eligible for inclusion. All phases of selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were carried out by two independent evaluators. Results: we identified 309 articles, of which 4 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 3 studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation does not alter glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals. Only one study showed a positive effect after supplementation with 60,000 IU/month of vitamin D3 for 12 months, with a significant reduction in the concentrations of glycated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, and two-hour postprandial glucose. Conclusion: there is insufficient scientific evidence to confirm the beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: las investigaciones muestran el efecto potencial de la suplementación con vitamina D con una mejora del perfil glucémico de los pacientes prediabéticos. Objetivo: este estudio evalúa los efectos de la suplementación con vitamina D sobre los marcadores de control glucémico en personas prediabéticas. Métodos: analizamos los estudios publicados en los últimos diez años e indexados en las bases de datos Science Direct, PubMed y LILACS. Se realizaron búsquedas de estudios mediante descriptores de salud relacionados con la vitamina D, la prediabetes y los marcadores de control glucémico. Los ensayos controlados y aleatorizados se consideraron elegibles para su inclusión. Todas las fases de selección, extracción de datos y evaluación del riesgo de sesgos fueron realizadas por dos evaluadores independientes. Resultados: identificamos 309 artículos, de los que 4 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. De estos, 3 estudios demostraron que la suplementación con vitamina D no altera los marcadores de control glucémico en las personas prediabéticas. Solo un estudio mostró un efecto positivo después de la suplementación de 60.000 UI/mes de vitamina D3 durante 12 meses, con una reducción significativa de las concentraciones de hemoglobina glucosilada, glucosa en ayunas y glucosa posprandial a las dos horas. Conclusión: no hay evidencia científica suficiente para confirmar los efectos beneficiosos de la suplementación de vitamina D sobre los marcadores de control glucémico en las personas prediabéticas.

Effects of "Bacuri" Seed Butter (Platonia insignis Mart.) on Metabolic Parameters in Hamsters with Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolemia.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the treatment with bacuri seed butter (BB) on body weight, growth, body mass index, lipid profile, atherosclerotic indices, and liver function in dyslipidemic hamsters. Freshly weaned, male hamsters were divided into four groups: (1) normal group (NG)-maintained with standard chow (AIN-93G); (2) dyslipidemia group (DG)-maintained with hyperlipidemic chow (AIN-93G modified) throughout the follow-up period; (3) bacuri seed butter 25 mg/kg/day (BB-25); and (4) bacuri seed butter 50 mg/kg/day (BB-50). BB groups (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) were also maintained with hyperlipidemic chow throughout the follow-up period, and the treatment started after 21 days receiving a hyperlipidemic diet to induce hypercholesterolemia and maintained for 28 days. No significant differences in triglycerides and total cholesterol were observed for BB-25 and BB-50 groups when compared with NG and DG groups. On the contrary, BB-25 and BB-50 induced both increase of HDL-c (51.40 ± 1.69 and 51.00 ± 2.34, respectively) and decrease of LDL-c (103.80 ± 6.87 and 100.50 ± 3.95, respectively) when compared with DG (41.00 ± 2.94 and 132.70 ± 9.41, respectively). In addition, BB promoted a reduction in the risk of atherosclerotic disease by decreasing (p < 0.05) the atherogenic index, coronary artery risk index, and LDL/CT ratio (p < 0.05) and increasing HDL/CT ratio. On the contrary, no changes were observed in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels or in body weight, growth, body mass index, or liver function parameters. Thus, bacuri seed butter at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg/day has positive repercussions on the lipid profile, more precisely on plasma HDL-c and LDL-c, and additionally promotes reduction in the risk of atherosclerosis in hamsters.

Sampling plan and methodological aspects: a household healthcare survey in Piauí.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the methodological aspects of the Piauí home healthcare survey (ISAD-PI) and assess the relation between sampling plan, precision, and design effects, assuming that population health surveys are relevant instruments for health monitoring. METHODS: ISAD-PI was a population-based cross-sectional study that analyzed the living conditions and health status of the population residing in urban areas in the municipalities of Teresina and Picos, in Piauí. Sampling was carried out by conglomerates in two stages: Primary Sampling Units and households. To calculate the sample size, we considered the stratification of the population in both cities, according to the age of the individuals. We evaluated the "non-response" rate (NRR) and estimated the proportions according to sex and age, as well as the prevalence of social determinants of health in order to assess the compliance of the sampling plan. Analyses related to the precision according to the coefficient of proportion variation of the standard error (Cv-pˆ) and the design effect (deff). Cv-pˆ less than 20% and deff less than 1.5 were considered adequate. The total NRR of households was 38.2% in Teresina and 38.3% in Picos. We carried out twenty-four proportion estimates in relation to age and sex and 48 prevalence of social and health determinants estimates, totaling 72 estimates. Among them, 71 had Cv-pˆ less than 20% and 61 had deff less than or equal to 1.5. CONCLUSION: Data generated from the ISAD-PI may contribute to the assessment of health and morbidity conditions in the population. Furthermore, methodological aspects employed in this research may serve as a basis for studies carried out in other cities in Brazil.

[Association between ultra-processed food consumption and lipid parameters among adolescents]. / Associação entre o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados e parâmetros lipídicos em adolescentes.

The scope of this study was to analyze the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and lipid parameters. It was a cross-sectional study performed with high school adolescents. Food consumption was analyzed by means of a 24-hour food recall form, where UPF were identified in line with the NOVA system of food classification. The total cholesterol levels, HDL-c and triglycerides were determined by enzymatic colorimetry and the LDL-c fraction estimated by formula. The Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney was used to compare averages, and linear regression to make associations among the variables. The results show that UPF consumption was more frequent in female adolescents between 17 and 19 years of age, with a family income above two minimum wages and from private schools. It was observed that individuals in the upper third of UPF consumption had a higher energetic, carbohydrate and sodium intake, with a lower intake of proteins and fibers. Moreover, it was found that a higher UPF intake was negatively associated with HDL-c levels and positively associated with triglyceride levels and dyslipidemia. Therefore, UPF is associated with a worsening of the nutritional profile of the diet and contributes to negative changes in the lipid parameters of young individuals.

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a associação entre o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados (AUP) e parâmetros lipídicos. Estudo transversal realizado com adolescentes de ensino médio. O consumo alimentar foi analisado por meio de recordatório alimentar de 24h, sendo os AUP identificados de acordo com a NOVA classificação de alimentos. Os níveis de colesterol total, HDL-c e triglicérides, foram determinados por colorimetria enzimática e a fração de LDL-c estimada por fórmula. Utilizou-se o teste t de Student ou Mann-Whitney para comparação de médias e regressão linear para realizar associações entre as variáveis. Os resultados mostram que o consumo de AUP foi mais frequente nas adolescentes do sexo feminino, entre a faixa etária 17 a 19 anos, com renda familiar superior a dois salários mínimos e de escolas particulares. Nota-se que os indivíduos no maior tercil de consumo de AUP apresentaram maior ingestão energética, de carboidratos e de sódio, com menor ingestão de proteínas e de fibras. Observou-se, ainda, que o maior consumo de AUP foi associado negativamente aos níveis de HDL-c e positivamente aos níveis de triglicerídeos e dislipidemia. Portanto, os AUP estão associados a uma piora no perfil nutricional da dieta e alterações negativas nos parâmetros lipídicos de jovens.

Prevalence of arterial hypertension and associated factors: a population-based study.

OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of hypertension in adults and analyze its association with socioeconomic, demographic, and lifestyle risk factors. METHODS Home-based cross-sectional epidemiological study conducted with adults of both sexes living in the cities of Teresina and Picos (PI). The prevalence of hypertension was estimated by self-reported diagnosis. The associations between hypertension and the following variables were tested: age, gender, skin color, education, family income, marital status, alcohol and cigarette consumption, physical activity, and nutritional status. RESULTS A total of 1,057 adult individuals with a mean age of 38.6 ± 11.5 years participated in the study, of which 62.3% were female. The prevalence of hypertension in the population was 16.4%. In the crude analysis, a significant association was observed between the prevalence of hypertension and factors such as older age, lower education, single marital status, brown skin color, smoking, and overweight (p < 0.05). However, after adjustments, only the associations with older age, brown skin color, sedentary lifestyle and overweight remained significant. CONCLUSION Older age, brown skin color, sedentary lifestyle, and the presence of overweight or obesity were significantly associated with hypertension. Among the modifiable risk factors, a sedentary lifestyle and overweight stand out as important for the genesis of hypertension, subject to intervention measures.

Impact of intermittent fasting on body weight in overweight and obese individuals.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the relationship of intermittent fasting in the bodyweight of overweight and obese individuals through a systematic literature review. METHODS: This is a systematic review based on randomized controlled trials. The articles were consulted in the databases: Science Direct, PubMed e BVS. This review was evaluated through the PRISMA recommendation. RESULTS: After the selection process, four articles were included in this review, comparing intermittent fasting (IF) with calorie restriction diet (CRD) as a control group. In 2 studies using similar protocols, there was no significant reduction in body weight of overweight or obese subjects. In the other two studies using different protocols, weight loss was significant in the IF group compared to the CRD group. CONCLUSIONS: Results did not provide evidence of the effect of intermittent fasting on weight loss in overweight or obese individuals.

Prevalence and factors associated with violence against high school teachers in Teresina, Piauí, 2016: a cross-sectional study. / Prevalência e fatores associados à violência contra professores em escolas do ensino médio em Teresina, Piauí, 2016: estudo transversal.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze prevalence of violence against high school teachers and associated factors in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. METHODS: this was a cross-sectional study using convenience sampling. Data was collected in 2016 in public and private high schools, using a self-administered questionnaire. Prevalence ratios (PR) using Poisson regression and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated. RESULTS: 279 teachers participated, of whom 54.8% (95%CI 48.8;60.7) reported having suffered at least one type of violence. Verbal insults were most prevalent (39.4%; 95%CI 33.7;45.4), positively associated with public schools (PR=1.45; 95%CI 1.00;2.11) and with schools in the city's Eastern region (PR=1.85; 95%CI 1.17;2.93) and Southern region (PR=1.59; 95%CI 1.05;2.41). Sexual harassment was associated with males (PR=2.38; 95%CI 2.02;2.71). CONCLUSION: violence against teachers was higher in public schools in poorer outskirt regions and regions with high indicators of urban violence.

Suicidal ideation and associated factors among high school adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the prevalence of suicidal ideation and its associated factors in school adolescents. METHODS: Cross-sectional school-based study with 674 students from public and private schools in Teresina, Piauí, in 2016. Bivariate analysis was performed with the chi-square test and multiple analysis by the Poisson regression model to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). RESULTS: The study participants were mostly female (56.7%), black (77.4%), who lived with their parents (85%), whose mothers had schooling greater than or equal to 8 years of schooling (68.8%), with family income greater than a minimum wage (58.3%), practitioners of some religion (86.8%) and coming from public school (64.7%). The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 7.9%. Higher frequency of suicidal ideation was reported among female students (10.2%). Suicidal ideation was statistically associated with students who reported not living with their parents (adjusted PR = 2.27; 95%CI 1.26-4.10; p < 0.05) and those who reported having suffered sexual violence by other students, teachers or school staff (adjusted PR = 3.40; 95%CI 1.80-6.44; p < 0.05), among which the prevalence of suicidal ideation was more than three times that observed among those who did not mention this type of violence. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of suicidal ideation in school adolescents was associated with female students, who did not live with parents and have been victim of sexual violence at school. We recommend advising the school community and health professionals to identify signs of suicidal behavior, especially in those with suspicion or proof of the occurrence of sexual violence at school.

[Do children and adolescents who consume ultra-processed foods have a worse lipid profile? A systematic review]. / Crianças e adolescentes que consomem alimentos ultraprocessados possuem pior perfil lipídico? Uma revisão sistemática.

The increase in the input of ultra-processed ingredients in the food of children and adolescents is related to the development of noncommunicable diseases such as dyslipidemia. The scope of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the relationship of consumption of ultra-processed foods in the lipid profile of children and adolescents. A search in the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane and LILACS databases was carried out to locate cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, with or without intervention, in apparently healthy children and/or adolescents, who had the intake of ultra-processed food as an exposure variable and the lipid profile as an outcome. After screening, 14 studies were included, of which nine demonstrated that ultra-processed food consumption was related to increased LDL-c, total cholesterol, triglycerides and a reduction in HDL-c. Three studies found no relationship and two demonstrated that the increased intake of ready-to-eat cereals was related to the decrease in total cholesterol and LDL-c. There was a high consumption of ultra-processed foods and positive relation with blood lipids among children and adolescents, which calls attention to interventions, such as nutritional education, with a view to reducing the intake of these foods.

O aumento da participação de alimentos ultraprocessados na alimentação de crianças e adolescentes está relacionado ao desenvolvimento de agravos não transmissíveis, como dislipidemia. Objetivou-se realizar uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre a relação do consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados e o perfil lipídico de crianças e adolescentes. Realizou-se uma busca nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane e LILACS por estudos com desenhos transversais e longitudinais, com ou sem intervenção; em crianças e/ou adolescentes aparentemente saudáveis, que tivessem a ingestão de alimento ultraprocessado como variável de exposição e o perfil lipídico como desfecho. Após triagem, 14 estudos foram incluídos, destes, nove demonstraram que o consumo de ultraprocessados estava relacionado com o aumento do LDL-c, colesterol total, triglicerídeos e diminuição do HDL-c. Três estudos não encontraram nenhuma relação e dois demonstraram que a maior ingestão de cereais prontos estava relacionada com a diminuição de colesterol total e LDL-c. Observou-se elevado consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados e relação positiva com lipídios sanguíneos em crianças e adolescentes o que chama atenção para a realização de intervenções, como educação nutricional, com vistas a reduzir a ingestão desses alimentos.

Lycopene-Rich Extract from Red Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Decreases Plasma Triglycerides and Improves Oxidative Stress Biomarkers on Experimentally-Induced Dyslipidemia in Hamsters.

This work assessed the effects of a 28-day treatment with lycopene-rich extract (LRE) from red guava fruit (Psidium guajava L.) on the lipid profile and oxidative stress in an experimental model of dyslipidemia. Male hamsters (116.5 ± 2.16 g) were fed with the AIN 93G diet containing casein (20%), coconut fat (13.5%) and cholesterol (0.1%). The animals were divided into four groups: normolipidemic control (standard feed; NC, n = 7); hypercholesterolemic control (HC, n = 7); LRE 25 mg/kg/day (LRE-25, n = 7) and LRE 50 mg/kg/day (LRE-50, n = 9). After treatment, plasma concentrations of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-c), malondialdehyde (MDA-p) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), as well as erythrocytic superoxide dismutase (SOD-e) and the atherogenic index, were determined. Malondialdehyde (MDA-h), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD-h) levels were assessed. Feed intake (FI) and weight gain (WG) were also determined. The LRE-25 group presented significantly lower TG levels and atherogenic index than did the HC group (p < 0.05). Both LRE-25 and LRE-50 groups presented lower levels of MDA-p and MPO than did the HC group (p < 0.05). LRE demonstrated a promising effect against dyslipidemia and oxidative stress.

Syphilis detection rate trend in aged people: Brazil, 2011-2019 / Tendência da taxa de detecção de sífilis em pessoas idosas: Brasil, 2011-2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the trend in the detection rate of syphilis in elderly people in Brazil from 2011 to 2019. Methods: An ecological, time-series study with data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The temporal trend of syphilis detection rates was analyzed according to the Prais-Winsten linear regression method. Results: 62,765 cases of syphilis in aged people were reported. There was a growing trend in the rate of syphilis detection in aged people in Brazil. The increase was of approximately six times, with a mean increase of 25% each year (annual percent change [APC]: 25.0; 95%CI 22.1-28.1). The increase in the detection rate was identified in both genders and for all age groups, with emphasis on the increase in females (APC: 49.1; 95%CI 21.9-26.8) and in the group aged 70 to 79 years old (APC: 25.8; 95%CI 23.3-28.3). All macro-regions of the country showed an increasing trend, with emphasis on the Northeast (APC: 51.2; 95%CI 43.0-59.8) and South (APC: 49.2; 95%CI 32.3-68.3). Conclusion: The growing trend in the detection rate of syphilis in aged people throughout Brazil highlights the need for planning and developing effective and multidisciplinary prevention actions and assistance adapted to this public.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a tendência da taxa de detecção de sífilis em pessoas idosas no Brasil no período de 2011 a 2019. Métodos: Estudo ecológico, de série temporal, com dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. Analisou-se a tendência temporal das taxas de detecção de sífilis segundo o método de regressão linear de Prais-Winsten. Resultados: Foram notificados 62.765 casos de sífilis em pessoas idosas. Verificou-se tendência crescente na taxa de detecção de sífilis em pessoas idosas no Brasil. O aumento foi de, aproximadamente, seis vezes, com incremento médio de 25% a cada ano (variação percentual anual [VPA]: 25,0; IC95% 22,1-28,1). O aumento na taxa de detecção foi identificado em ambos os sexos e para todos os grupos etários, com destaque para o incremento no sexo feminino (VPA: 49,1; IC95% 21,9-26,8) e no grupo com 70 a 79 anos de idade (VPA: 25,8; IC95% 23,3-28,3). Todas as macrorregiões do país apresentaram tendência crescente, com destaque para as regiões Nordeste (VPA: 51,2; IC95% 43,0-59,8) e Sul (VPA: 49,2; IC95% 32,3-68,3). Conclusão: A tendência crescente da taxa de detecção de sífilis em pessoas idosas em todo território brasileiro evidencia a necessidade de planejamento e desenvolvimento de ações efetivas e multiprofissionais de prevenção e assistência adaptada a esse público.

Prevalence of overweight and association with lifestyle habits in adults: A population-based study

The objective of this study was to verify the association between lifestyle habits and obesity in a sample of adults from the "Inquérito de Saúde Domiciliar no Piauí - ISAD-PI" (Home Health Survey in Piauí - ISAD-PI). A cross-sectional population-based household study was performed with a representative sample of 1,163 adults from the cities of Teresina and Picos, Piauí, Brazil who were participants of ISAD-PI. Sociodemographic and lifestyle data were collected utilizing a structured questionnaire adapted from other Brazilian population studies and analyzed using Stata. Most of the population had healthy lifestyle habits, with adequate consumption of fruits/vegetables and beans, as well as a low consumption of soft drinks, sweets, and red meats. Alcohol consumption was more prevalent among overweight individuals. Individuals who had the habit of consuming alcohol and those who consumed beans less than five days a week had a significantly higher prevalence of overweight. A higher prevalence of overweight was significantly associated with weekly frequency of beans consumption and alcohol intake.

El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la asociación entre los hábitos de vida y la obesidad en adultos en una muestra del Inquérito de Saúde Domiciliar - ISAD (Encuesta de Salud en el Hogar). Estudio transversal de base poblacional y domiciliar, muestra representativa de 1.163 adultos, de los municipios de Teresina y Picos, Piauí, Brasil, de la ISAD-PI. La recopilación de datos sociodemográficos y de estilo de vida se realizó utilizando un cuestionario estructurado adaptado de otros estudios de población brasileños y analizado con Stata. La mayor parte de la población tenía hábitos de vida más saludables, con un consumo adecuado de frutas/verduras y frijoles, así como un bajo consumo de refrescos, dulces y carnes rojas. El consumo de alcohol fue más frecuente entre las personas con sobrepeso. Los individuos que tenían el hábito de consumir alcohol y los que consumían frijoles menos de cinco días a la semana presentaron prevalencias significativamente mayores de sobrepeso. Se observó dada la alta prevalencia de sobrepeso, que mostró asociaciones significativas entre frecuencia semanal de consumo de frijol y consumo de alcohol.

High-dose Vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of patients with COVID-19: A systematic review

Introduction: Vitamin C supplementation has been seen as a supportive treatment to control and prevent complications of COVID-19 by enhancing the immune response against infection. However, the effects of high doses of this vitamin are not yet fully understood. Objective: To analyze the effects of high-dose vitamin C in patients with COVID-19. Methods: This was a systematic review, using original studies published from April 2020 to November 2022 in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The combination of descriptors registered in Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) used to search for articles were: (("vitamin C" OR "ascorbic acid") AND ("COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2" OR "coronavirus")). Original articles of clinical trials conducted with patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and submitted to high-dose vitamin C supplementation were included. Results: Eligible studies included patients in intensive care units, wards, or outpatient clinics, who were given doses of vitamin C, ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 mg/day, with an average duration of 6.25 days of supplementation and mostly intravenous administration. A reduction in fever and myalgia was observed, as well as an improvement in oxygen saturation and lung impairment rate. Conclusion: The role of high-dose vitamin C in patients affected by COVID-19 requires further study, however, to date, the results have been promising for symptom reduction and improvement in lung function and oxygenation.

Introducción: La administración de suplementos de vitamina C se ha considerado un tratamiento de apoyo para controlar y prevenir las complicaciones del COVID-19 al mejorar la respuesta inmunitaria contra la infección. Sin embargo, los efectos de dosis elevadas de esta vitamina aún no se conocen en su totalidad. Objetivo: Analizar los efectos de altas dosis de vitamina C en pacientes con COVID-19. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio de revisión sistemática, utilizando artículos originales publicados desde abril de 2020 hasta noviembre de 2022 en las bases de datos PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus y Web of Science. Para la búsqueda de los artículos se utilizó la combinación de descriptores registrados en Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): (("vitamin C" OR "ascorbic acid") AND ("COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2" OR "coronavirus")). Se incluyeron artículos originales de tipo ensayo clínico realizados con pacientes diagnosticados con COVID-19 y sometidos a suplementación con altas dosis de vitamina C. Resultados: Los estudios elegibles se realizaron con pacientes ingresados en unidades de cuidados intensivos, salas o ambulatorios, a los que se administraron dosis de vitamina C que oscilaban entre 6.000 y 8.000 mg/día, con una duración media de 6,25 días de suplementación y vía de administración mayoritariamente intravenosa. Se observó una reducción de la fiebre y las mialgias, además de una mejoría de la saturación de oxígeno y de la tasa de compromiso pulmonar. Conclusión: El papel de las dosis altas de vitamina C en pacientes afectados por COVID-19 requiere más estudios; sin embargo, hasta la fecha, los resultados han sido prometedores en cuanto a la reducción de los sintomas, y la mejora de la función pulmonar y la oxigenación.

Cholesterol-Lowering and Liver-Protective Effects of Cooked and Germinated Mung Beans (Vigna radiata L.).

We investigated the hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective effects of cooked and germinated whole mung beans. Hamsters were fed for 28 days on diets rich in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, differing only in protein source (20%): casein, cooked whole mung bean, and germinated mung bean. After 28 days, we found reduced plasma concentrations of total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol, increased faecal cholesterol excretion, and reduced levels of asparagine aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase enzymes in the liver. Reduction in hepatic lipid deposition was observed between each of the mung bean groups relative to the casein group. In addition, the animals of the geminated mung bean group showed a lack of inflammatory infiltrate and better vascularisation of the hepatic tissue. Results from this study show significant hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective properties of the mung bean, which are further enhanced after germination.

Overweight and obesity in preschoolers: Prevalence and relation to food consumption.

OBJECTIVE:: To determine overweight and obesity prevalence in preschool children from public education, and to determine their relation to food consumption. METHOD:: Cross-sectional study with children aged between 2 and 5 years, of both sexes, enrolled at municipal day care centers. Socioeconomic, demographic and anthropometric data were collected, in order to calculate the body mass index (BMI) for age. Data on food consumption were assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire. χ2 test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Student's t-test and Pearson's correlation were used at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS:: Of 548 children, 52% were male, with mean age of 4.2 years old. Most families had incomes between 1 and 2 minimum wages (59.7%), in addition to 10 years (mothers) of education. Anthropometric parameters did not differ significantly between sexes. According to the BMI-for-age, it was found that most of children were well-nourished (85.2%), 8.2% had the risk of becoming overweight, and 4.2% were overweight. The most consumed foods were: rice (100%), beans (99.4%), bread (98.5%), fruit (98.5%), red meat (97.1%), butter and margarine (95.4%), biscuits, cakes and sweet pies (94.1%), dairy products (94.1%), chocolate milk (91.7%), and soft drinks (90.2%). Consumed foods that were strongly correlated (r > 0.7) to the risk of/excess weight were, as follows: bread; biscuits, cakes, sweet pies; dairy products; chocolate milk; sausages. CONCLUSION:: There was low prevalence of overweight and absence of obesity among the population assessed. The risk of overweight was greater among girls. Data from the study showed deviations in food consumption.