RESUMEN

Breakthrough COVID-19 (occurring in fully vaccinated people) has been described. Data on its characteristics among immune-mediated rheumatic disease (IMRD) patients are scarce. This study describes breakthrough COVID-19 occurring in IMRD patients participating in the SAFER-study, a Brazilian multicentric cohort evaluating the safety, effectiveness, and immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients with autoimmune diseases. A descriptive analysis of the population and a binary logistic regression model were performed to evaluate the predictors of COVID-19-related hospitalization. A p-value < 0.05 was significant. The included 160 patients were predominantly females (83.1%), with a mean (SD) age of 40.23 (13.19) years. The patients received two (19%), three (70%), or four (11%) vaccine doses. The initial two-dose series was mainly with ChAdOx1 (Oxford/AstraZeneca) (58%) or BBIBP-CorV (Sinopharm-Beijing) (34%). The first booster (n = 150) was with BNT162b2 (BioNtech/Fosun Pharma/Pfizer) (63%) or ChAdOx1 (29%). The second booster (n = 112) was with BNT162b2 (40%) or ChAdOx1 (26%). The COVID-19 hospitalization rate was 17.5%. IMRD moderate/high activity (OR: 5.84; CI: 1.9-18.5; p = 0.002) and treatment with corticosteroids (OR: 2.94; CI: 1.02-8.49; p = 0.0043) were associated with higher odds of hospitalization, while increasing the number of vaccine doses was protective (OR: 0.37; CI: 0.15-0.9; p = 0.032). These findings, along with previous reassuring results about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines, argue in favor of booster vaccination in IMRD patients.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs) have been prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination to mitigate the infection severity risks. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at a high risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, especially those under immunosuppression or with associated comorbidities. However, few studies have assessed the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine in patients with RA. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with RA. METHODS: This data are from the study "Safety and Efficacy on COVID-19 Vaccine in Rheumatic Diseases," a Brazilian multicentric prospective phase IV study to evaluate COVID-19 vaccine in IMRDs in Brazil. Adverse events (AEs) in patients with RA of all centers were assessed after two doses of ChAdOx1 (Oxford/AstraZeneca) or CoronaVac (Sinovac/Butantan). Stratification of postvaccination AEs was performed using a diary, filled out daily and returned at the end of 28 days for each dose. RESULTS: A total of 188 patients with RA were include, 90% female. CoronaVac was used in 109 patients and ChAdOx1 in 79. Only mild AEs were observed, mainly after the first dose. The most common AEs after the first dose were pain at the injection (46,7%), headache (39,4%), arthralgia (39,4%), myalgia (30,5%) and fatigue (26,6%), and ChAdOx1 had a higher frequency of pain at the injection (66% vs 32 %, p < 0.001) arthralgia (62% vs 22%, p < 0.001) and myalgia (45% vs 20%, p < 0.001) compared to CoronaVac. The more common AEs after the second dose were pain at the injection (37%), arthralgia (31%), myalgia (23%), headache (21%) and fatigue (18%). Arthralgia (41,4% vs 25%, p = 0.02) and pain at injection (51,4% vs 27%, p = 0.001) were more common with ChAdOx1. No serious AEs were related. With Regard to RA activity level, no significant difference was observed between the three time periods for both COVID-19 vaccines. CONCLUSION: In the comparison between the two immunizers in patients with RA, local reactions and musculoskeletal symptoms were more frequent with ChAdOx1 than with CoronaVac, especially after the first dose. In summary, the AE occurred mainly after the first dose, and were mild, like previous data from others immunizing agents in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Vaccination did not worsen the degree of disease activity.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical signs to rare neurological events, and is considered a neglected tropical disease in Brazil. Due to the clinical similarities to other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and dengue viruses, OROV infections are likely to be underreported. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) cases in Brazil were first recognized in 2014 in the states of Amapá and Bahia in the north and northeast regions, respectively. Both OROV and CHIKV cause nonspecific symptoms, making clinical diagnosis difficult in a scenario of arbovirus cocirculation. Aiming to investigate OROV transmission during the CHIKV introduction in the state of Amapá located in the Brazilian Amazon, we conducted a retrospective molecular (RT-qPCR) and serological investigation in febrile cases (N = 166) collected between August 2014 and May 2015. All acute serum samples were negative for OROV RNA using RT-qPCR. However, neutralizing antibodies for OROV were detected using a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT90) in 10.24% (17/166) of the patients, with neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 20 to ≥640, suggesting the previous exposure of patients to OROV. Regarding CHIKV, recent exposure was confirmed by the detection of CHIKV RNA in 20.25% (33/163) of the patients and by the detection of anti-CHIKV IgM in 28.57% (44/154) of the patients. The additional detection of anti-CHIKV IgG in 12.58% (19/151) of the febrile patients suggests that some individuals had been previously exposed to CHIKV. Whether the OROV exposure reported here occurred prior or during the CHIKV circulation in Amapá, is unknown, but because those arboviral infections share similar clinical signs and symptoms, a silent circulation of enzootic arboviruses during the introduction of exotic arboviruses may occur, and highlights the importance of syndromic cases' surveillance to arboviruses in Brazil.

RESUMEN

Uncaria tomentosa (UT) is a medicinal plant popularly known as cat's claw belonging to the Rubiaceae family that has been reported to display antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) outbreaks constitute a Brazilian public health concern. CHIKV infection develops an abrupt onset of fever, usually accompanied by a skin rash, besides incapacitating polyarthralgia. There is no vaccine available or treatment for CHIKV infection. The present study evaluates the hydroalcoholic extract of UT bark as a potential antiviral against CHIKV. The in vitro antiviral activity of the UT extract against the Brazilian CHIKV strain was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, and plaque assay. Results obtained demonstrated that UT inhibits CHIKV infection in a dose-dependent manner. At the non-cytotoxic concentration of 100 µg/mL, UT exhibited antiviral activity above 90% as determined by plaque reduction assay, and it reduced the viral cytopathic effect. Similarly, a significant virucidal effect of 100 µg/mL UT was observed after 24 and 48 h post-infection. This is the first report on the antiviral activity of UT against CHIKV infection, and the data presented here suggests UT as a potential antiviral to treat CHIKV infection.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Resumo Este artigo pretende analisar a morbimortalidade da Covid-19 no Brasil, segundo quesito raça/cor, problematizando o conceito de raça como estruturante para uma atenção equânime na pandemia. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória e reflexiva, com análise de 43 boletins epidemiológicos e 15 artigos selecionados a partir de uma revisão narrativa de literatura. Discutimos elementos concernentes à epidemiologia social crítica, interseccionalidade e necropolítica, ante as iniquidades em saúde. Os resultados apontam que numa sociedade interseccionalizada por racismo, sexismo e pobreza, o risco, a incidência e a mortalidade da doença são socialmente desiguais, haja vista a população negra, pobre e periférica, apresentar maiores índices epidemiológicos. Desvela-se um Estado com tecnologias necropolíticas governamentais, sendo a pandemia mais um modus de produzir a morte. Conclui-se evocando a insurgência de uma epidemiologia complexa da Covid-19, aliando políticas de saúde à proteção social e ao desenvolvimento econômico.

Abstract This article aims to analyze the morbimortality of COVID-19 in Brazil, according to race/color aspects, problematizing the concept of race as a structuring factor for equitable care in the pandemic. Exploratory and reflective research, with analysis of 43 epidemiological bulletins and 15 articles selected from a narrative literature review. We discuss elements concerning critical social epidemiology, intersectionality, and necropolitics, in the face of health inequities. The results indicate that in a society intersected by racism, sexism, and poverty, the risk, incidence, and mortality of the disease are socially unequal, given that the black, poor, and peripheral city population has higher epidemiological indices. A State with necropolitical technologies is revealed, with the pandemic being another modus to produce death. It concludes by evoking the insurgency of a complex epidemiology of COVID-19, combining health policies with social protection and economic development.

RESUMEN

Resumo Este artigo é um ensaio que visa compreender as intersecções entre racismo, capitalismo e a crise social/sanitária da fome e insegurança alimentar que assola o Brasil no contexto posterior à pandemia de covid-19. Para tal, são utilizados os conceitos de nutricídio e racismo alimentar, aproximando-os das concepções de necropolítica e genocídio da população negra, em um entendimento que o Estado deixa de dar condições de segurança alimentar às populações marginalizadas. Isso ocorre, especialmente, nas regiões periféricas das grandes cidades, cujas populações, em sua maioria, são negras, e se tornam vítimas de uma lógica de "deixar morrer" e gerar morte desses segmentos com políticas públicas excludentes e/ou potencialmente danosas à alimentação e à nutrição humanas. A aproximação entre saúde coletiva, fome e racismo é potencialmente geradora de subsídios para a elaboração de políticas de saúde, alimentação e assistência social, sendo, ao mesmo tempo, produtora de um território de estudos e pesquisas no campo da alimentação, nutrição e saúde.

Abstract This essay aims to comprehend the intersections between racism, capitalism, and the social and health crisis of hunger and food insecurity that plagues Brazil in the context after the COVID-19 pandemic. For this, it uses the concepts of nutricide and food racism a, bringing them closer to the concepts of necropolitics and the genocide of the Black population in an understanding that the State fails to provide food security conditions to marginalized populations, especially peripheral ones in large municipalities, mostly Black people, under a logic of letting die and generating death of these segments by excluding public policies and/or potentially harmful policies to human nutrition. The approximation between public health, hunger, and racism may subsidize the elaboration of health, food, and social assistance policies, creating, at the same time, a territory of study and research in the field of food, nutrition, and health.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Garbage codes, such as external causes with no specific information, indicate poor quality cause of death data. Investigation of garbage codes via an effective instrument is necessary to convert them into useful data for public health. This study analyzed the performance and suitability of the new investigation of deaths from external causes (IDEC) form to improve the quality of external cause of death data in Brazil. The performance of the IDEC form on 133 external garbage codes deaths was compared with a stratified matched sample of 992 (16%) investigated deaths that used the standard garbage codes form. Consistency between these two groups was checked. The percentage of garbage codes from external causes reclassified into valid causes with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was analyzed. Reclassification for specific causes has been described. Qualitative data on the feasibility of the form were recorded by field investigators. Investigation using the new form reduced all external garbage codes by -92.5% (95%CI: -97.0; -88.0), whereas the existing form decreased garbage codes by -60.5% (95%CI: -63.5; -57.4). The IDEC form presented higher effectivity for external-cause garbage codes of determined intent. Deaths that remained garbage codes mainly lacked information about the circumstances of poisoning and/or vehicle accidents. Despite the fact that field investigators considered the IDEC form feasible, they suggested modifications for further improvement. The new form was more effective than the current standard form in improving the quality of defined external causes.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Garbage codes, such as external causes with no specific information, indicate poor quality cause of death data. Investigation of garbage codes via an effective instrument is necessary to convert them into useful data for public health. This study analyzed the performance and suitability of the new investigation of deaths from external causes (IDEC) form to improve the quality of external cause of death data in Brazil. The performance of the IDEC form on 133 external garbage codes deaths was compared with a stratified matched sample of 992 (16%) investigated deaths that used the standard garbage codes form. Consistency between these two groups was checked. The percentage of garbage codes from external causes reclassified into valid causes with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was analyzed. Reclassification for specific causes has been described. Qualitative data on the feasibility of the form were recorded by field investigators. Investigation using the new form reduced all external garbage codes by -92.5% (95%CI: -97.0; -88.0), whereas the existing form decreased garbage codes by -60.5% (95%CI: -63.5; -57.4). The IDEC form presented higher effectivity for external-cause garbage codes of determined intent. Deaths that remained garbage codes mainly lacked information about the circumstances of poisoning and/or vehicle accidents. Despite the fact that field investigators considered the IDEC form feasible, they suggested modifications for further improvement. The new form was more effective than the current standard form in improving the quality of defined external causes.

Códigos garbage (códigos inespecíficos ou incompletos), como causas externas sem informações específicas, indicam dados de má qualidade sobre a causa da morte. É necessário investigar os códigos garbage com um instrumento efetivo para convertê-los em dados úteis para a saúde pública. Este estudo analisou o desempenho e a adequação do novo formulário de investigação de óbitos por causas externas (IDEC) para melhorar a qualidade dos dados de causa externa de morte no Brasil. O desempenho deste formulário em 133 óbitos com códigos garbage de causas externas foi comparado com uma amostra estratificada e pareada de 992 (16%) óbitos investigados que utilizaram o formulário padrão de códigos garbage existente. A consistência entre esses dois grupos foi verificada. Analisou-se o percentual de códigos garbage de causas externas reclassificados em causas válidas com um intervalo de 95% de confiança (IC95%). A reclassificação para causas específicas foi descrita. Dados qualitativos sobre a viabilidade do formulário foram registrados por pesquisadores de campo. A investigação com o novo formulário reduziu todos os códigos garbage de causas externas em -92,5% (IC95%: -97,0; -88,0) enquanto o formulário existente diminuiu os códigos garbage em -60,5% (IC95%: -63,5; -57,4). O formulário IDEC foi mais eficaz para os códigos garbage de causa externa sem intenção indeterminada. As mortes que permaneceram como códigos garbage careciam principalmente de informações detalhadas sobre as circunstâncias do envenenamento e dos acidentes de trânsito. O formulário IDEC foi considerado viável pelos investigadores de campo, no entanto, eles sugeriram modificações para um maior aperfeiçoamento. O novo formulário foi mais eficaz do que o formulário padrão atual na melhoria da qualidade das causas externas definidas.

Códigos garbage (códigos inespecíficos o incompletos), como causas externas inespecíficas, son los indicadores de datos de mala calidad sobre la causa de muerte. Es necesario investigar los códigos garbage con un instrumento eficaz para convertirlos en datos útiles para la salud pública. Este estudio analizó el desempeño y la adecuación del nuevo formulario de investigación de muertes por causas externas (IDEC) para mejorar la calidad de los datos de causa externa de muerte en Brasil. El desempeño de este formulario en 133 muertes con códigos garbage de causas externas se comparó con una muestra estratificada y emparejada de 992 (16%) muertes investigadas que usaron el formulario estándar de códigos garbage existente. Se comprobó la consistencia entre estos dos grupos. Se analizó el porcentaje de códigos garbage por causas externas reclasificados en causas válidas con un intervalo del 95% de confianza (IC95%). Se procedió a una reclasificación por causas específicas. Los datos cualitativos sobre la viabilidad del formulario fueron registrados por investigadores de campo. La investigación con el nuevo formulario tuvo una reducción de todos los códigos garbage de causas externas en -92,5% (IC95%: -97,0; -88,0), mientras que el formulario existente redujo todos los códigos garbage de causas externas en -60,5% (IC95%: -63,5; -57,4). El formulario IDEC fue el más efectivo para códigos garbage de causa externa sin intención indeterminada. Las muertes que quedaron como códigos garbage carecían principalmente de información detallada sobre las circunstancias de envenenamiento y de accidentes de tránsito. Los investigadores de campo confirmaron la viabilidad del formulario IDEC, además de sugerir modificaciones para mejorarlo. El nuevo formulario fue el más efectivo que el formulario estándar actual en cuanto a la mejora de la calidad de las causas externas definidas.

RESUMEN

Resumo Neste artigo, discutimos o processo de trabalho da pesquisa, a metodologia participativa e colaborativa para a construção do site para uso ampliado na Atenção, Ensino e Pesquisa nos campos da Saúde Mental Atenção Básica, o qual intitulamos 'Portfólio de Práticas Inspiradoras em Atenção Psicossocial', bem como as ações em curso para sua gestão compartilhada. O conjunto da pesquisa analisou, sistematizou e categorizou práticas na atenção básica e espaços comunitários, construindo mecanismos de busca e disseminação científica para experiências inovadoras e inspiradoras em todo o país, no período de 2015 a 2020. O site dá visibilidade e relevância às abordagens psicossociais de acolhimento, cuidado e potencialização da vida presentes no Sistema Único de Saúde. Experiências alternativas ao modelo biomédico, base para uma perspectiva interdisciplinar e desinstitucionalizante de Saúde Mental na Atenção Básica.

Abstract In this article, we discuss the working process of the research, the participatory and collaborative methodology for the construction of the website for expanded use in Care, Teaching and Research in the fields of Mental Health Primary Care, which we titled 'Portfolio of Inspiring Practices in Psychosocial care', as well as the ongoing actions for its shared management. The whole research analyzed, systematized and categorized practices in primary care and community spaces, building search engines and scientific dissemination for innovative and inspiring experiences throughout the country, in the period from 2015 to 2020. The website gives visibility and relevance to the psychosocial approaches of reception, care and enhancement of life present in the Unified Health System. Alternative experiences to the biomedical model, the basis for an interdisciplinary and deinstitutionalizing perspective of Mental Health in Primary Care.

Resumen En este artículo discutimos el proceso de trabajo de la investigación, la metodología participativa y colaborativa para la construcción del site de uso ampliado en la Atención, Enseñanza e Investigación en los campos de la Atención Primaria de Salud Mental, que denominamos 'Portafolio de Prácticas Inspiradoras en Atención Psicosocial', así como las acciones en curso para su gestión compartida. El conjunto de investigación analizó, sistematizó y categorizó prácticas en la atención primaria y en los espacios comunitarios, construyendo mecanismos de búsqueda y divulgación científica de experiencias innovadoras e inspiradoras en todo el país, de 2015 a 2020. El site confere visibilidad y relevancia a los enfoques psicosociales de acogida, cuidado y potenciación de vida presentes en el Sistema Único de Salud. Experiencias alternativas al modelo biomédico, base para una perspectiva interdisciplinar y desinstitucionalizadora de la Salud Mental en Atención Primaria.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the evolution of extremely preterm and very preterm infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units, regarding the use of ventilatory support, morbidities, medication use, death, survival and viability. Methods: a non-concurrent cohort study, with 163 very premature and extreme newborns hospitalized in three neonatal intensive care units, during 2016 and 2017. A descriptive analysis of the data obtained from the medical records was performed. The outcomes studied were the use of ventilatory support, morbidities, medication use, death and causes of death. A survival curve was constructed and a viability limit was defined. Results: in the study, 28.2% were extreme and 71.8% were very premature. In this order of subgroups, the need for mechanical ventilation was higher for the extremes (65.2% and 41.0%) and the main diagnosis was early sepsis (78.6% and 82.6). Off-label (60.5% and 47.9%) and off-license (25.3% and 29.0%) medications were used. Most deaths (57.8%) occurred between the extremes, mainly due to septic shock. Survival was lower for the lowest gestational ages and the limit of viability was between 26 and 27 weeks. Conclusions: the main morbidities were from the respiratory system, with high use of off-label and unlicensed medications. Extremes had a greater demand for intensive care in addition to needing more drugs and progressing more to death.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar a evolução dos prematuros extremos e muito prematuros internados em unidades de terapia intensiva neonatais, quanto ao uso de suporte ventilatório e de medicamentos, óbito, sobrevida e viabilidade. Métodos: estudo de coorte não concorrente, com 163 recém-nascidos muito prematuros e extremos internados em três unidades de terapia intensiva neonatais, durante 2016 e 2017. Realizou-se análise descritiva dos dados obtidos dos prontuários. Os desfechos estudados foram o uso de suporte ventilatório, morbidades, uso de medicamentos, óbito e causas de óbito. Foi construída curva de sobrevivência e delimitado um limite de viabilidade. Resultados: no estudo, 28,2% eram extremos e 71,8% muito prematuros. Nessa ordem de subgrupos, a necessidade de ventilação mecânica foi maior para os extremos (65,2% e 41,0%) e o principal diagnóstico foi sepse precoce (78,6% e 82,6).Medicamentos off-label (60,5% e 47,9%) e sem-licença (25,3% e 29,0%) foramutilizados. A maioria dos óbitos (57,8%) ocorreu entre os extremos, principalmente por choque séptico. A sobrevivência foi menor para as menores idades gestacionais e o limite de viabilidade ficou entre 26 e 27 semanas. Conclusões: as principais morbidades foram do sistema respiratório, com alto uso de medicamentos off-label e sem licença. Extremos tiveram maior demanda de cuidados intensivos além de necessitarem de mais medicamentos e evoluírem mais ao óbito.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Mayaro virus (MAYV, Togaviridae) and Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV, Peribunyaviridae) are emerging enzootic arboviruses in Latin America. Outbreaks of febrile illness associated with MAYV and OROV have been reported among humans mainly in the northern region of Brazil since the 1980s, and recent data suggest these viruses have circulated also in more populated areas of western Brazil. MAYV shares mosquito vectors with yellow fever virus and it has been historically detected during yellow fever epidemics. Aiming to investigate the transmission of OROV and MAYV at the human-animal interface during a yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika outbreaks in Brazil, we conducted a retrospective molecular investigation in 810 wild and domestic animals, 106 febrile patients, and 22.931 vectors collected from 2016 to 2018 in Cuiaba and Campo Grande metropolitan regions, western Brazil. All samples tested negative for OROV and MAYV RNA by RT-qPCR. Findings presented here suggest no active circulation of MAYV and OROV in the sampled hosts. Active surveillance and retrospective investigations are instrumental approaches for the detection of cryptic and subclinical activity of enzootic arboviruses and together serve as a warning system to implement appropriate actions to prevent outbreaks.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Growth factors (GFs) have a role in tissue repair and in the modulation of the expression of inflammatory cells in damage caused by pathogens. This study aims to systematize the evidence on the role of GFs in the pathogenesis of dengue. This scoping review considered all published peer-reviewed studies in the MEDLINE and Embase databases. Ultimately, 58 studies that analyzed GFs in dengue patients, published between 1998 and 2021, were included. DENV-2 infection and secondary infection were more frequent in the patients studied. ELISA and multiplex immunoassay (Luminex) were the most used measurement techniques. Increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, transforming growth factor beta, and hepatocyte growth factor as well as reduced levels of platelet-derived growth factor and epidermal growth factor were observed in severe dengue in most studies. Vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor were identified as biomarkers of severity. In addition, there is evidence that the dengue virus can use the growth factor pathway to facilitate its entry into the cell and promote its viral replication. The use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors is an alternative treatment for dengue that is being studied.

RESUMEN

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arbovirus currently distributed worldwide, causing a disease that shares clinical signs and symptoms with other illnesses, such as dengue and Zika and leading to a challenging clinical differential diagnosis. In Brazil, CHIKV emerged in 2014 with the simultaneous introduction of both Asian and East/Central/South African (ECSA) genotypes. Laboratorial diagnosis of CHIKV is mainly performed by molecular and serological assays, with the latter more widely used. Although many commercial kits are available, their costs are still high for many underdeveloped and developing countries where the virus circulates. Here we described the development and evaluation of a multi-epitope recombinant protein-based IgG-ELISA (MULTREC IgG-ELISA) test for the specific detection of anti-CHIKV antibodies in clinical samples, as an alternative approach for laboratorial diagnosis. The MULTREC IgG-ELISA showed 86.36% of sensitivity and 100% of specificity, and no cross-reactivity with other exanthematic diseases was observed. The recombinant protein was expressed from the binary system insect cell/baculovirus using the crystal-forming baculoviral protein polyhedrin as a carrier of the target recombinant protein to facilitate recovery. The crystals were at least 10 times smaller in size and had an amorphous shape when compared to the polyhedrin wild-type crystal. The assay uses a multi-epitope antigen, representing two replicates of 18 amino acid sequences from the E2 region and a sequence of 17 amino acids from the nsP3 region of CHIKV. The recombinant protein was highly expressed, easy to purify and has demonstrated its usefulness in confirming chikungunya exposure, indeed showing a good potential tool for epidemiological surveillance.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Protein aggregates are pathological hallmarks of many neurodegenerative diseases, however the physiopathological role of these aggregates is not fully understood. Protein quality control has a pivotal role for protein homeostasis and depends on specific chaperones. The co-chaperone BAG2 can target phosphorylated Tau for degradation by an ubiquitin-independent pathway, although its possible role in autophagy was not yet elucidated. In view of this, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association among protein aggregation, autophagy and BAG2 levels in cultured cells from hippocampus and locus coeruleus as well as in SH-SY5Y cell line upon different protein aggregation scenarios induced by rotenone, which is a flavonoid used as pesticide and triggers neurodegeneration. METHODS AND RESULTS: The present study showed that rotenone exposure at 0.3 nM for 48 h impaired autophagy prior to Tau phosphorylation at Ser199/202 in hippocampus but not in locus coeruleus cells, suggesting that distinct neuron cells respond differently to rotenone toxicity. Rotenone induced Tau phosphorylation at Ser199/202, together with a decrease in the endogenous BAG2 protein levels in SH-SY5Y and hippocampus cell culture, which indicates that rotenone and Tau hyperphosphorylation can affect this co-chaperone. Finally, it has been shown that BAG2 overexpression, increased p62/SQSTM1 levels in cells from hippocampus and locus coeruleus, stimulated LC3II recycling as well as prevented the raise of phosphorylated Tau at Ser199/202 in hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS: Results demonstrate a possible role for BAG2 in degradation pathways of specific substrates and its importance for the study of cellular aspects of neurodegenerative diseases.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

The co-circulation of chikungunya virus (CHIKV), dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil, caused a challenging triple epidemic, as they share similar clinical signs and symptoms and geographical distribution. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratorial aspects of chikungunya suspected cases assisted in RJ during the 2018 outbreak, focusing on the differential diagnosis with dengue and zika. All suspected cases were submitted to molecular and/or serological differential diagnostic approaches to arboviruses. A total of 242 cases suspected of arbovirus infection were investigated and 73.6% (178/242) were molecular and/or serologically confirmed as chikungunya. In RT-qPCR confirmed cases, cycle threshold (Ct) values ranged from 15.46 to 35.13, with acute cases presenting lower values. Chikungunya cases were mainly in females (64%) and the most frequently affected age group was adults between 46 to 59 years old (27%). Polyarthralgia affected 89% of patients, especially in hands and feet. No dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) infections were confirmed by molecular diagnosis, but 9.5% (23/242) had serological evidence of DENV exposure by the detection of specific anti-DENV IgM or NS1, and 42.7% (76/178) of chikungunya positive cases also presented recent DENV exposure reflected by a positive anti-DENV IgM or NS1 result. A significantly higher frequency of arthritis (p = 0.023) and limb edema (p < 0.001) was found on patients with CHIKV monoinfection compared to dengue patients and patients exposed to both viruses. Lastly, phylogenetic analysis showed that the chikungunya cases were caused by the ECSA genotype. Despite the triple arboviruses' epidemic in the state of RJ, most patients with fever and arthralgia investigated here were diagnosed as chikungunya cases, and the incidence of CHIKV/DENV co-detection was higher than that reported in other studies.

RESUMEN

While pillaging the brood of other ant colonies, Eciton army ants accumulate prey in piles, or caches, along their foraging trails. Widely documented, these structures have historically been considered as by-products of heavy traffic or aborted relocations of the ants' temporary nest, or bivouac. However, we recently observed that caches of the hook-jawed army ant, Eciton hamatum, appeared independently from heavy traffic or bivouac relocations. In addition, the flow of prey through caches varied based on the quantity of prey items workers transported. As this suggested a potential adaptive function, we developed agent-based simulations to compare raids of caching and non-caching virtual army ants. We found that caches increased the amount of prey that relatively low numbers of raiders were able to retrieve. However, this advantage became less conspicuous-and generally disappeared-as the number of raiders increased. Based on these results, we hypothesize that caches maximize the amount of prey that limited amounts of raiders can retrieve, especially as prey colonies coordinately evacuate their brood. In principle, caches also allow workers to safely collect multiple prey items and efficiently transport them to the bivouac. Further field observations are needed to test this and other hypotheses emerging from our study.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Background: The Lichtenstein repair has long been heralded as the gold standard for unilateral primary inguinal hernias. However, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) repairs have gained popularity over the past decades given its advantages in recurrent, bilateral, and now even in primary inguinal hernias. We aim to further explore the perception of different techniques among surgeons internationally. Methods: A questionnaire was posted in three closed groups for surgeons and residents on Facebook® and surgical groups on WhatsApp®. It was also e-mailed to members of the following surgical societies: Mexican Society of Surgery, Brazilian Hernia Society, Asia Pacific Hernia Society, and European Hernia Society. Descriptive and basic comparative statistical analyses were performed. Results: In total, 874 surgeons answered the survey: 759 (86.9%) were male and 418 (47.8%) were from North America, 735 (84.1%) had completed training and 605 (69.2%) considered themselves hernia specialists. If safety profiles of inguinal herniorrhaphy were equal, 533 (61%) would choose MIS. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal ranked first among preferred techniques if the cost of all techniques was the same. Safety of the procedure followed by experience of the surgeon is the most influential factors. Lastly, hernia specialists were more likely to choose an MIS technique (P < .0001). Conclusion: When an international sample of 874 attending and trainee surgeons were surveyed about what technique they would prefer to repair their own uncomplicated unilateral inguinal hernia, most chose MIS. Safety of the procedure and the surgeon's experience were the most important factors in choosing a surgical technique.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the attitudes of health professionals working in Primary Health Care before and after participating in workshops about how to approach people with suicidal behavior. Method: a before-and-after quantitative and quasi-experimental study, conducted in a municipality in the inland of the state of São Paulo from August to September 2019. The sample consisted of 34 workers who answered a Sociodemographic Questionnaire and the Questionnaire on Attitudes towards Suicidal Behavior, applied before and after three workshops on how to approach people with suicidal behavior in the Primary Health Care context. The data were analyzed by means of the Wilcoxon and McNemar tests, considering p<0.05. Results: a statistically significant difference was identified before and after the workshops regarding professional ability (p=0.011), negative feelings towards the patient (p=0.025) and without a category (p=0.006), evidencing the effectiveness of the workshops on how to approach people with suicidal behavior for management and care professionals working in Primary Health Care. Conclusion: the short-term results observed after the workshops point to a change in the professionals' conception and management in relation to people with suicidal behavior. Permanent and continuous training strategies as spaces for learning, reflection and action are fundamental to qualify the approach to people with suicidal behavior.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las actitudes de los profesionales de la salud que trabajan en Atención Primaria antes y después de participar en talleres sobre el enfoque en relación a personas que presentan conductas suicidas. Método: estudio de carácter cuantitativo y cuasi-experimental del tipo antes y después, realizado en un municipio del interior del estado de San Pablo de agosto a septiembre de 2019. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 34 trabajadores que respondieron un Cuestionario Sociodemográfico y el Cuestionario sobre Actitudes en Relación a las Conductas Suicidas, aplicados tanto antes como después de asistir a tres talleres sobre cómo tratar a personas con conductas suicidas en el contexto de la Atención Primaria de la Salud. Los dados se analizaron por medio de las pruebas de Wilcoxon y McNemar, considerando p<0,05. Resultados: se identificó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa antes y después de los talleres en lo que se refiere a la capacidad profesional (p=0,011), a sentimientos negativos en relación al paciente (p=0,025) y a ninguna categoría específica (p=0,006), evidenciando así la efectividad de los talleres sobre cómo tratar a personas con conductas suicidas destinados a profesionales de gestión y atención en el contexto de la Atención Primaria de la Salud. Conclusión: los resultados a corto plazo que se observaron después de los talleres señalan un cambio en la concepción y el manejo de los profesionales frente a personas que presentan conductas suicidas. Estrategias permanentes y sostenidas en el tiempo como espacios de aprendizaje, reflexión y acción son fundamentales para cualificar debidamente la forma de atender a personas con conductas suicidas.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as atitudes dos profissionais de saúde da Atenção Primária à Saúde antes e após a participação de oficinas acerca da abordagem em relação à pessoa com comportamento suicida. Método: estudo de natureza quantitativa e quase-experimental do tipo antes e depois, realizado em município do interior do estado de São Paulo de agosto a setembro de 2019. A amostra foi composta por 34 trabalhadores que responderam a um Questionário Sociodemográfico e ao Questionário sobre Atitudes em Relação ao Comportamento Suicida, aplicados antes e após a realização de três oficinas sobre abordagem à pessoa com comportamento suicida no contexto da Atenção Primária à Saúde. Os dados foram analisados por meio dos testes de Wilcoxon e McNemar, considerando p<0,05. Resultados: identificou-se diferença estatisticamente significativa antes e após as oficinas no que se refere à capacidade profissional (p=0,011), sentimentos negativos em relação ao paciente (p=0,025) e sem categoria (p=0,006), evidenciando a efetividade das oficinas sobre a abordagem da pessoa com comportamento suicida para os profissionais da gestão e do cuidado na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Conclusão: os resultados a curto prazo, observados após oficinas, apontam para uma mudança na concepção e no manejo dos profissionais frente à pessoa com comportamento suicida. Estratégias permanentes e continuadas de formação como espaços de aprendizagem, reflexão e ação são fundamentais para qualificar a abordagem à pessoa com comportamento suicida.

RESUMEN

Resumo As rigorosas medidas de segurança adotadas pelos hospitais, em decorrência da pandemia, estenderam-se também às Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatais (UTIN). Este artigo desvela, por meio de observação sistemática, as mudanças organizacionais e estruturais ancoradas na Teoria Ambientalista de Nightingale que ocorreram na UTIN de um hospital público do interior da Bahia. Observou-se a interconexão entre os Ambientes Físico, Psicológico e Social, porém, com comprometimento na comunicação e relação entre família, neonato e equipe, apresentando um viés sensível das consequências restritivas da covid-19. Salienta-se o paradoxo entre zelar pela segurança e o impedimento das práticas informativas e facilitadoras de vínculos que envolvem o trinômio mencionado. Contudo, novas estratégias emergem desse contexto, levando os profissionais a se reinventarem e ousarem na comunicação, por meio de recursos remotos antes não utilizados, destacando as tecnologias digitais.

Abstract The strict safety measures adopted in hospital environments due to the pandemic have also been extended to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). By means of a systematic observation and based on Nightingale's Environmental Theory, this article sought to unveil the organizational and structural changes in the NICU of a public hospital in the countryside of Bahia. Results indicate an interconnection between physical, psychological, and social environments, which were committed to the communication and relationship between family, newborn, and team, thus presenting a sensitive bias of the restrictive consequences of covid-19. These findings highlight the paradox between ensuring security and preventing informational and bond-facilitator practices that involve the aforementioned triad. From this context emerge new communication strategies leading professionals to reinvent themselves, and to dare in communication by remote resources not used before, emphasizing the use of digital technologies.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Thyroid dysfunction substantially affects the quality of life due to its association with various disorders in different organs. A low intake of selenium and zinc can predispose to thyroid alterations, resulting in hypothyroidism. A deficiency of selenium and zinc causes direct and indirect skin lesions, both by the action of free radicals on the skin and by thyroid dysfunction. The aim of this study was to describe natural cases of diffuse alopecia and thyroid abnormalities in sheep with selenium and zinc deficiency. Five adult sheep presented marked and diffuse alopecia, and the residual hairs were dry and brittle. The skin was thick and crusty, with marked peeling. The triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) serum concentrations were below reference values for the species. Zinc and Se concentrations were low in both the serum and liver. During necropsy, cachexia associated with serous fat atrophy was observed, and the thyroid glands showed marked atrophy. Microscopically, the thyroid presented multifocal to coalescent atrophy, with atrophied and dilated follicles, macrophage infiltration, and the presence of fibrous connective tissue. The skin revealed hyperkeratosis and edema. It is concluded that thyroid atrophy, alopecia, and hyperkeratosis are associated with low serum and liver concentrations of zinc and selenium in sheep.