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The emergence and propagation of bacteria resistant to antimicrobial drugs is a serious public health threat worldwide. The current antibacterial arsenal is becoming obsolete and the pace of drug development is decreasing, highlighting the importance of investment in alternative approaches to treat or prevent infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. A significant mechanism of antimicrobial resistance employed by Gram-negative bacteria is the overexpression of efflux pumps that can extrude several compounds from the bacteria, including antimicrobials. The overexpression of efflux pump proteins has been detected in several multidrug resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria, drawing attention to these proteins as potential targets against these pathogens. This review will focus on the role of outer membrane proteins (OMPs) from efflux pumps as potential vaccine candidates against clinically relevant MDR Gram-negative bacteria, discussing advantages and pitfalls. Additionally, we will explore the relevance of efflux pump OMP diversity and the possible impact of vaccination on microbiota.

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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The idea of watertight dural closure (WTDC) seems extremely obvious to avoid complications such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak and infection, especially in spinal and posterior fossa surgeries. Nonetheless, several studies have shown that leaving the dura open is not associated with an increased risk of complications. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare non-WTDC and WTDC in patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy regarding the risk of postoperative complications. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized control trials and observational studies comparing non-WTDC with WTDC in patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy. Outcomes of interest were CSF leak, overall infection, meningitis, and subgaleal fluid collection (SFC). Statistical analysis was performed using RStudio 2023.12.1 + 402. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. RESULTS: Of 1541 potential articles, 7 met the inclusion criteria. The review comprised 3 randomized control trials, 1 prospective study, and 3 retrospective cohort studies. Among the 1619 patients, 766 (47.3%) and 853 (52.7%) patients were in the non-WTDC and WTDC groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in CSF leak between the non-WTDC and WTDC groups (risk ratio [RR] 1.61; 95% CI 0.68-3.77; P = .276; I2 = 0%). Furthermore, we did not find significant differences in overall infection (RR 1.62; 95% CI 0.95-2.76; P = .078; I2 = 4%), meningitis (RR 1.87; 95% CI 0.64-5.46; P = .251; I2 = 0%), and SFC (RR 1.53; 95% CI 0.64-3.65; P = .342; I2 = 52%) between the non-WTDC and WTDC groups. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that non-WTDC is a safe method and is not associated with an increased risk of CSF leak, overall infection, meningitis, and SFC compared with WTDC.

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The LABEXTRACT plant extract bank, featuring diverse members of the Myrtaceae family from Brazilian hot spot regions, provides a promising avenue for bioprospection. Given the pivotal roles of the Spike protein and 3CLpro and PLpro proteases in SARS-CoV-2 infection, this study delves into the correlations between the Myrtaceae species from the Atlantic Forest and these targets, as well as an antiviral activity through both in vitro and in silico analyses. The results uncovered notable inhibitory effects, with Eugenia prasina and E. mosenii standing out, while E. mosenii proved to be multitarget, presenting inhibition values above 72% in the three targets analyzed. All extracts inhibited viral replication in Calu-3 cells (EC50 was lower than 8.3 µg·mL-1). Chemometric analyses, through LC-MS/MS, encompassing prediction models and molecular networking, identified potential active compounds, such as myrtucommulones, described in the literature for their antiviral activity. Docking analyses showed that one undescribed myrtucommulone (m/z 841 [M - H]-) had a higher fitness score when interacting with the targets of this study, including ACE2, Spike, PLpro and 3CLpro of SARS-CoV-2. Also, the study concludes that Myrtaceae extracts, particularly from E. mosenii and E. prasina, exhibit promising inhibitory effects against crucial stages in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Compounds like myrtucommulones emerge as potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents, warranting further exploration.

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BACKGROUND: The high quality and unique flavor and aroma of bean-to-bar chocolates have resulted in an increase in the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, cocoa beans may present inorganic contaminants from environmental and anthropogenic sources which can contribute to contamination of the chocolates, despite the fewer processing steps and few ingredients used in bean-to-bar manufacturing process compared to the industrial one. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the content of trace elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Hg, Pb, Se) in bean-to-bar chocolates and traceable cocoa beans from Brazil and Ecuador. METHODS: Bean-to-bar chocolate samples were acquired in Brazil (n=65) and Ecuador (n=10), considering the main products available: white, milk, semisweet and dark chocolate. Cocoa samples from dedicated farms (n=23) were analyzed for trace elements and inorganic contaminants regulated by Brazil and European agencies. Samples were mineralized using acid digestion (nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide) in a closed microwave-assisted system. Quantification of trace elements was performed using Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP OES) in optimized conditions. The analytical control was performed with certified reference materials (ERM BD512 - Dark Chocolate, Tort-2 and Tort-3 - Lobster Hepatopancreas and SRM 1547 - Peach leaves) and recoveries ranged between 84% and 105% for all elements. RESULTS: The trace element levels in the bean-to-bar chocolates were (mg/kg): As (<0.022-0.023), Cd (<0.002-0.74), Cu (0.11-21.2), Co (<0.003-1.88), Hg (<0.010-<0.010), Pb (<0.007-0.22), and Se (<0.029-0.35). The exposure assessment from inorganic contaminants in chocolates revealed up to 93% of provisional tolerable monthly intake (PTMI) for Cd and 123% of tolerable upper intake level (UL) for Co for children. Inorganic contaminants were also analyzed in cocoa beans from dedicated farms and Cd and Pb levels were found above the thresholds established by Brazil health agency. CONCLUSION: The results observed for both bean-to-bar chocolates and raw materials (cocoa beans from dedicated farms) indicated a need for monitoring these trace elements.

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O objetivo do trabalho é analisar o fluxo de acesso às Unidades Básicas de Saúde no município de Pelotas/RS no ano de 2022. Metodologia: Estudo qualitativo observacional, exploratório e descritivo realizado através da coleta de dados na Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, e busca nas bases de dados referenciais. Resultados: Em Pelotas/RS, no ano de 2022, possuía 51 Unidades Básicas contempladas por 100 equipes de saúde. Em relação ao horário de funcionamento, 90% das unidades atuavam em horário comercial e, apenas 10%, em horário estendido. Quanto à territorialização, encontrava-se em processo de adesão à política de população adscrita, tendo, no momento do estudo, 45 de suas unidades com a área populacional total de abrangência. Além disso, nos últimos anos foi implementado o sistema de acolhimento como forma de primeiro atendimento. Conclusões: No que tange ao objeto de estudo - o acesso - viu-se que a principal barreira está no horário de funcionamento das unidades. A modificação na forma de atendimento, implementado o acolhimento, foi visivelmente benéfico à população, permitindo maior porta de entrada à saúde. Evidenciou-se, ainda, algumas lacunas que podem impedir o acesso integral dos indivíduos, como a falta de alguns profissionais nas unidades e a fragmentação do sistema, esse último podendo ser solucionado com o incentivo e o investimento à tecnologia, a favor da integração dos serviços.

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Abstract Objective To describe a cohort of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) cases from a tertiary care institution and compare the maternal outcomes before and after the creation of a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Methods Retrospective study using hospital databases. Identification of PAS cases with pathological confirmation between 2010 and 2021. Division in two groups: standard care (SC) group - 2010-2014; and MDT group - 2015-2021. Descriptive analysis of their characteristics and maternal outcomes. Results During the study period, there were 53 cases of PAS (24 - SC group; 29 - MDT group). Standard care group: 1 placenta increta and 3 percreta; 12.5% (3/24) had antenatal suspicion; 4 cases had a peripartum hysterectomy - one planned due to antenatal suspicion of PAS; 3 due to postpartum hemorrhage. Mean estimated blood loss (EBL) was 2,469 mL; transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBC) in 25% (6/24) - median 7.5 units. Multidisciplinary team group: 4 cases of placenta increta and 3 percreta. The rate of antenatal suspicion was 24.1% (7/29); 9 hysterectomies were performed, 7 planned due to antenatal suspicion of PAS, 1 after intrapartum diagnosis of PAS and 1 after uterine rupture following a second trimester termination of pregnancy. The mean EBL was 1,250 mL, with transfusion of PRBC in 37.9% (11/29) - median 2 units. Conclusion After the creation of the MDT, there was a reduction in the mean EBL and in the median number of PRBC units transfused, despite the higher number of invasive PAS disorders.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever uma coorte de casos do espectro do acretismo placentário (PAS) de uma instituição terciária e comparar os resultados maternos antes e depois da criação de uma equipa multidisciplinar (MDT). Métodos Estudo retrospectivo utilizando bancos de dados hospitalares. Identificação de casos de PAS com confirmação patológica entre 2010 e 2021. Divisão em dois grupos: grupo Standard Care (SC) - 2010-2014; e grupo MDT - 2015-2021. Análise descritiva de suas características e desfechos maternos. Resultados Durante o período do estudo, houve 53 casos de PAS (24 - grupo SC; 29 - grupo MDT). Grupo Standard Care: 1 placenta increta e 3 percretas; 12,5% (3/24) tiveram suspeita anteparto; 4 casos tiveram histerectomia periparto - uma eletiva devido à suspeita anteparto de PAS; 3 devido a hemorragia pós-parto. A média de perda hemática estimada (EBL) foi de 2.469 mL; transfusão de concentrado eritrocitário (PRBC) em 25% (6/24) - mediana 7,5 unidades. Equipa multidisciplinar: 4 casos de placenta increta e 3 percretas. A taxa de suspeita anteparto foi de 24,1% (7/29); foram realizadas 9 histerectomias, 7 eletivas por suspeita anteparto de PAS, 1 após diagnóstico intraparto de PAS e 1 após rotura uterina após interrupção da gravidez no segundo trimestre. A EBL média foi de 1.250 mL, com transfusão de PRBC em 37,9% (11/29) - mediana de 2 unidades. Conclusão Após a criação da MDT, houve redução na média de EBL e na mediana do número de unidades de PRBC transfundidas, apesar do maior número de PAS invasivos.

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OBJECTIVE: To describe a cohort of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) cases from a tertiary care institution and compare the maternal outcomes before and after the creation of a multidisciplinary team (MDT). METHODS: Retrospective study using hospital databases. Identification of PAS cases with pathological confirmation between 2010 and 2021. Division in two groups: standard care (SC) group - 2010-2014; and MDT group - 2015-2021. Descriptive analysis of their characteristics and maternal outcomes. RESULTS: During the study period, there were 53 cases of PAS (24 - SC group; 29 - MDT group). Standard care group: 1 placenta increta and 3 percreta; 12.5% (3/24) had antenatal suspicion; 4 cases had a peripartum hysterectomy - one planned due to antenatal suspicion of PAS; 3 due to postpartum hemorrhage. Mean estimated blood loss (EBL) was 2,469 mL; transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBC) in 25% (6/24) - median 7.5 units. Multidisciplinary team group: 4 cases of placenta increta and 3 percreta. The rate of antenatal suspicion was 24.1% (7/29); 9 hysterectomies were performed, 7 planned due to antenatal suspicion of PAS, 1 after intrapartum diagnosis of PAS and 1 after uterine rupture following a second trimester termination of pregnancy. The mean EBL was 1,250 mL, with transfusion of PRBC in 37.9% (11/29) - median 2 units. CONCLUSION: After the creation of the MDT, there was a reduction in the mean EBL and in the median number of PRBC units transfused, despite the higher number of invasive PAS disorders.

OBJETIVO: Descrever uma coorte de casos do espectro do acretismo placentário (PAS) de uma instituição terciária e comparar os resultados maternos antes e depois da criação de uma equipa multidisciplinar (MDT). MéTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo utilizando bancos de dados hospitalares. Identificação de casos de PAS com confirmação patológica entre 2010 e 2021. Divisão em dois grupos: grupo Standard Care (SC) ­ 2010­2014; e grupo MDT ­ 2015­2021. Análise descritiva de suas características e desfechos maternos. RESULTADOS: Durante o período do estudo, houve 53 casos de PAS (24 - grupo SC; 29 - grupo MDT). Grupo Standard Care: 1 placenta increta e 3 percretas; 12,5% (3/24) tiveram suspeita anteparto; 4 casos tiveram histerectomia periparto ­ uma eletiva devido à suspeita anteparto de PAS; 3 devido a hemorragia pós-parto. A média de perda hemática estimada (EBL) foi de 2.469 mL; transfusão de concentrado eritrocitário (PRBC) em 25% (6/24) - mediana 7,5 unidades. Equipa multidisciplinar: 4 casos de placenta increta e 3 percretas. A taxa de suspeita anteparto foi de 24,1% (7/29); foram realizadas 9 histerectomias, 7 eletivas por suspeita anteparto de PAS, 1 após diagnóstico intraparto de PAS e 1 após rotura uterina após interrupção da gravidez no segundo trimestre. A EBL média foi de 1.250 mL, com transfusão de PRBC em 37,9% (11/29) - mediana de 2 unidades. CONCLUSãO: Após a criação da MDT, houve redução na média de EBL e na mediana do número de unidades de PRBC transfundidas, apesar do maior número de PAS invasivos.

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COVID-19 has infected humans worldwide, causing millions of deaths or prolonged symptoms in survivors. The transient or persistent symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection have been defined as post-COVID-19 conditions (PCC). We conducted a study of 151 Brazilian PCC patients to analyze symptoms and immunoglobulin profiles, taking into account sex, vaccination, hospitalization, and age. Fatigue and myalgia were the most common symptoms, and lack of vaccination, hospitalization, and neuropsychiatric and metabolic comorbidities were relevant to the development of PCC. Analysis of serological immunoglobulins showed that IgA was higher in PCC patients, especially in the adult and elderly groups. Also, non-hospitalized and hospitalized PCC patients produced high and similar levels of IgA. Our results indicated that the detection of IgA antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 during the course of the disease could be associated with the development of PCC and may be an immunological signature to predict prolonged symptoms in COVID-19 patients.

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Since the advent of Covid-19, several natural products have been investigated regarding their in silico interactions with SARS-CoV-2 proteases - 3CLpro and PLpro, two of the most important pharmacological targets for antiviral development. Phenylethanoid glycosides (PG) are a class of natural products present in important medicinal plants and a drug containing this group of active ingredients has been successfully used in the treatment of Covid-19 in China. Thus, a dataset with 567 derivatives of this class was built from reviews published between 1994 and 2020, and their interaction against both SARS-CoV-2 proteases was investigated. The virtual screening was performed by filtering the PGs through the evaluation of scores based on the AutoDock Vina, GOLD/ChemPLP, and GOLD/GoldScore evaluation functions. The bRO5 pharmacokinetic parameters of the PGs ranked in the previous step were analyzed and their interaction with key amino acid residues of the 3CLpro and PLpro enzymes was evaluated. Ninety-eight compounds were identified by computational approaches against PLpro and 80 PGs against 3CLpro. Of these, four interacted with key catalytic residues of PLpro, which is an indicative of inhibitory activity, and three compounds interacted with catalytic key residues of 3CLpro. Of these, five PGs occur in plants of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), while two are components of plants/formulations currently used in the Covid-19 protocols in China. The data presented here show the potential of PGs as selective inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and PLpro.

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After 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the protocols used to control infection lack attention and analysis. We present data about deposits of complete genomic sequences of SARS-CoV-2 in the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database made between January 2021 and May 31, 2022. We build the distribution profile of SARS-CoV-2 variants across South America, highlighting the contribution and influence of each variant over time. Monitoring the genomic sequences in GISAID illustrates negligence in the follow up of infected patients in South America and also the discrepancies between the number of complete genomes deposited throughout the pandemic by developed and developing countries. While Europe and North America account for more than 9 million of the genomes deposited in GISAID, Africa and South America deposited less than 400 000 genome sequences. Genomic surveillance is important for detecting early warning signs of new circulating viruses, assisting in the discovery of new variants and controlling pandemics.

Tras dos años de pandemia del COVID-19, los protocolos empleados para controlar la infección carecen de atención y análisis. En este artículo se presentan datos sobre depósitos de secuencias genómicas completas del SARS-CoV-2 en la base de datos de secuenciación GISAID, la Iniciativa mundial para intercambiar todos los datos sobre la gripe aviar, realizadas entre enero del 2021 y el 31 de mayo del 2022. Se creó el perfil de distribución de las variantes del SARS-CoV-2 en América del Sur, en el que se destacaron la contribución y la influencia de cada variante a lo largo del tiempo. El monitoreo de las secuencias genómicas en GISAID ilustra la negligencia en el seguimiento de los pacientes infectados en América del Sur, así como las discrepancias entre el número de genomas completos depositados a lo largo de la pandemia por parte de los países desarrollados y los países en desarrollo. Mientras que Europa y América del Norte han depositado más de 9 millones de genomas en GISAID, África y América del Sur han aportado menos de 400 000 secuencias genómicas. La vigilancia genómica es importante para detectar los primeros signos de alerta de virus nuevos en circulación, ayudar en el descubrimiento de nuevas variantes y controlar las pandemias.

Após 2 anos da pandemia de covid-19, os protocolos usados para controlar a infecção necessitam maior atenção e análise. Apresentamos dados sobre as sequências genômicas completas do SARS-CoV-2 depositadas no banco de dados do a iniciativa internacional para o intercâmbio de dados sobre os vírus da influenza (GISAID) entre janeiro de 2021 e 31 de maio de 2022. Construímos o perfil de distribuição das variantes do SARS-CoV-2 na América do Sul, destacando a contribuição e a influência de cada variante ao longo do tempo. O monitoramento das sequências genômicas do GISAID ilustra a negligência no acompanhamento de pacientes infectados na América do Sul e as discrepâncias entre os países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento com relação ao número de genomas completos depositados ao longo da pandemia. Enquanto a Europa e a América do Norte respondem por mais de 9 milhões dos genomas depositados no GISAID, a África e a América do Sul depositaram menos de 400 000 sequências genômicas. A vigilância genômica é importante para detectar sinais de alerta precoces de novos vírus circulantes, auxiliar na descoberta de novas variantes e controlar pandemias.

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[ABSTRACT]. After 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the protocols used to control infection lack attention and analysis. We present data about deposits of complete genomic sequences of SARS-CoV-2 in the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database made between January 2021 and May 31, 2022. We build the distribution profile of SARS-CoV-2 variants across South America, highlighting the contribution and influence of each variant over time. Monitoring the genomic sequences in GISAID illustrates negligence in the follow up of infected patients in South America and also the discrepancies between the number of complete genomes deposited throughout the pandemic by developed and developing countries. While Europe and North America account for more than 9 million of the genomes deposited in GISAID, Africa and South America deposited less than 400 000 genome sequences. Genomic surveillance is important for detecting early warning signs of new circulating viruses, assisting in the discovery of new variants and controlling pandemics.

[RESUMEN]. Tras dos años de pandemia del COVID-19, los protocolos empleados para controlar la infección carecen de atención y análisis. En este artículo se presentan datos sobre depósitos de secuencias genómicas completas del SARS-CoV-2 en la base de datos de secuenciación GISAID, la Iniciativa mundial para intercambiar todos los datos sobre la gripe aviar, realizadas entre enero del 2021 y el 31 de mayo del 2022. Se creó el perfil de distribución de las variantes del SARS-CoV-2 en América del Sur, en el que se destacaron la contribución y la influencia de cada variante a lo largo del tiempo. El monitoreo de las secuencias genómicas en GISAID ilustra la negligencia en el seguimiento de los pacientes infectados en América del Sur, así como las discrepancias entre el número de genomas completos depositados a lo largo de la pandemia por parte de los países desarrollados y los países en desarrollo. Mientras que Europa y América del Norte han depositado más de 9 millones de genomas en GISAID, África y América del Sur han aportado menos de 400 000 secuencias genómicas. La vigilancia genómica es importante para detectar los primeros signos de alerta de virus nuevos en circulación, ayudar en el descubrimiento de nuevas variantes y controlar las pandemias.

[RESUMO]. Após 2 anos da pandemia de covid-19, os protocolos usados para controlar a infecção necessitam maior atenção e análise. Apresentamos dados sobre as sequências genômicas completas do SARS-CoV-2 depositadas no banco de dados do a iniciativa internacional para o intercâmbio de dados sobre os vírus da influenza (GISAID) entre janeiro de 2021 e 31 de maio de 2022. Construímos o perfil de distribuição das variantes do SARS-CoV-2 na América do Sul, destacando a contribuição e a influência de cada variante ao longo do tempo. O monitoramento das sequências genômicas do GISAID ilustra a negligência no acompanhamento de pacientes infectados na América do Sul e as discrepâncias entre os países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento com relação ao número de genomas completos depositados ao longo da pandemia. Enquanto a Europa e a América do Norte respondem por mais de 9 milhões dos genomas depositados no GISAID, a África e a América do Sul depositaram menos de 400 000 sequências genômicas. A vigilância genômica é importante para detectar sinais de alerta precoces de novos vírus circulantes, auxiliar na descoberta de novas variantes e controlar pandemias.

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Restrictions placed on the distribution of biological material by the legislation of countries such as India, South Africa, or Brazil exclude strains that could serve as type material for the validation or valid publication of prokaryotic species names. This problem goes beyond prokaryotic taxonomy and is also relevant for other areas of biological research.

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ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms and associated factors in six-year-old children. Methods: Cross-sectional epidemiological study involving 956 six-year-old schoolchildren from Palhoça, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Home interviews were conducted with mothers in which socio-demographic and house environmental conditions information were obtained, and the International Study of Athma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire for allergic rhinitis symptoms was applied. Bivariate and multivariate hierarchical analyses were performed using Poisson regression with a robust estimator. Results: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis symptoms was 21.7%. Children whose mothers had over 8 years of education, or who had air conditioning equipment in the house, or whose bedroom walls presented mold or moisture showed statistically significant and independent 5% higher prevalence of allergic rhinitis. Similarly, children of smoker mothers or those who lived with fur or feather animals indoors showed a 4% higher prevalence. Conclusion: Significant associations were observed between socio-demographic factors and environmental conditions in child's home and allergic rhinitis symptoms in children aged six years.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência de sintomas de rinite alérgica e fatores associados em crianças de seis anos de idade. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico de delineamento transversal envolvendo 956 escolares de seis anos de idade do município de Palhoça, Santa Catarina, Brasil. Foram realizadas entrevistas domiciliares com as mães sobre as informações sociodemográficas e as condições ambientais da casa e foi aplicado o questionário ISAAC para sintomas de rinite alérgica. Análises bivariada e multivariada hierarquizada foram realizadas por meio da Regressão de Poisson com estimador robusto. Resultados: A prevalência de sintomas de rinite alérgica foi de 21,7%. Crianças cujas mães apresentavam escolaridade maior que oito anos ou com presença de aparelho de ar condicionado ou mofo/umidade nas paredes do quarto em que dormiam apresentaram prevalência 5% maior, estatisticamente significativa e independente, de rinite alérgica. Da mesma forma, crianças com mães tabagistas ou que conviviam com animais de pelo ou pena dentro de casa apresentaram prevalência 4% maior. Conclusão: Foram observadas associações significativas entre fatores sociodemográficos e condições ambientais da casa da criança e sintomas de rinite alérgica em crianças de seis anos de idade.

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ABSTRACT After 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the protocols used to control infection lack attention and analysis. We present data about deposits of complete genomic sequences of SARS-CoV-2 in the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database made between January 2021 and May 31, 2022. We build the distribution profile of SARS-CoV-2 variants across South America, highlighting the contribution and influence of each variant over time. Monitoring the genomic sequences in GISAID illustrates negligence in the follow up of infected patients in South America and also the discrepancies between the number of complete genomes deposited throughout the pandemic by developed and developing countries. While Europe and North America account for more than 9 million of the genomes deposited in GISAID, Africa and South America deposited less than 400 000 genome sequences. Genomic surveillance is important for detecting early warning signs of new circulating viruses, assisting in the discovery of new variants and controlling pandemics.

RESUMEN Tras dos años de pandemia del COVID-19, los protocolos empleados para controlar la infección carecen de atención y análisis. En este artículo se presentan datos sobre depósitos de secuencias genómicas completas del SARS-CoV-2 en la base de datos de secuenciación GISAID, la Iniciativa mundial para intercambiar todos los datos sobre la gripe aviar, realizadas entre enero del 2021 y el 31 de mayo del 2022. Se creó el perfil de distribución de las variantes del SARS-CoV-2 en América del Sur, en el que se destacaron la contribución y la influencia de cada variante a lo largo del tiempo. El monitoreo de las secuencias genómicas en GISAID ilustra la negligencia en el seguimiento de los pacientes infectados en América del Sur, así como las discrepancias entre el número de genomas completos depositados a lo largo de la pandemia por parte de los países desarrollados y los países en desarrollo. Mientras que Europa y América del Norte han depositado más de 9 millones de genomas en GISAID, África y América del Sur han aportado menos de 400 000 secuencias genómicas. La vigilancia genómica es importante para detectar los primeros signos de alerta de virus nuevos en circulación, ayudar en el descubrimiento de nuevas variantes y controlar las pandemias.

RESUMO Após 2 anos da pandemia de covid-19, os protocolos usados para controlar a infecção necessitam maior atenção e análise. Apresentamos dados sobre as sequências genômicas completas do SARS-CoV-2 depositadas no banco de dados do a iniciativa internacional para o intercâmbio de dados sobre os vírus da influenza (GISAID) entre janeiro de 2021 e 31 de maio de 2022. Construímos o perfil de distribuição das variantes do SARS-CoV-2 na América do Sul, destacando a contribuição e a influência de cada variante ao longo do tempo. O monitoramento das sequências genômicas do GISAID ilustra a negligência no acompanhamento de pacientes infectados na América do Sul e as discrepâncias entre os países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento com relação ao número de genomas completos depositados ao longo da pandemia. Enquanto a Europa e a América do Norte respondem por mais de 9 milhões dos genomas depositados no GISAID, a África e a América do Sul depositaram menos de 400 000 sequências genômicas. A vigilância genômica é importante para detectar sinais de alerta precoces de novos vírus circulantes, auxiliar na descoberta de novas variantes e controlar pandemias.

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Since the first reported case of COVID-19 in Brazil, the public and private educational system started to close. Up to November 2020, scientific discussions about the return of schooling activities have been rarely performed by the national scientific community and police-makers. The great delay of school returning in Brazil contrasts with successful international strategies of school reopening worldwide and seems counterintuitive with the reopening of non-essential activities. Here, important issues to be considered before and during school reopening are reviewed and discussed. COVID-19 testing is essential to avoid disease spreading, but high cost of individual RT-qPCRs impairs an extensive testing strategy for school returning. To reduce costs and increase the speed of diagnosis, we tested the efficiency of a pooled-sample PCR strategy in a cohort of the educational staff in the city of Macaé/RJ, finding five asymptomatic individuals (0,66%) among the 754 people tested. Thus, a polled-sample PCR testing strategy of the educational staff might prevent infection spreading in schools at a reasonable cost. We discuss how our test strategy could be coupled with internationally recognized safety rules to allow for a safe school return and how countries from different world regions are dealing with educational activities during COVID-19 pandemic.

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The SARS-CoV-2 virus infection led to millions of deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of workers from several other Brazilian cities, as well as from other countries, arrive daily in Macaé to work in the oil supply chain, making this city a putative hotspot for the introduction of new viral lineages. In this study, we performed a genomic survey of SARS-CoV-2 samples from Macaé during the first outbreak of COVID-19, combined with clinical data and a molecular integrative analysis. First, phylogenomic analyses showed a high occurrence of viral introduction events and the establishment of local transmissions in Macaé, including the ingression and spread of the B.1.1.28 lineage in the municipality from June to August 2020. Second, SARS-CoV-2 mutations were identified in patients with distinct levels of COVID-19 severity. Third, molecular interactions of the mutated spike protein from three B.1.1.33 local samples and human ACE2 showed higher interactions than that of the wild-type spike protein from the ancestral virus. Altogether, these results elucidate the SARS-CoV-2 genomic profile in a strategic Brazilian city and further explore the functional aspects of SARS-CoV-2 with a characterization of emerging viral mutations associated with clinical data and the potential targets for drug development against SARS-CoV-2.

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Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo compreender as atitudes significativas de homens alcoolistas e suas expressões de sentimentos diante das interações familiares e comunitárias em tempos de pandemia da COVID-19. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, do tipo exploratório, fundamentado no método da História Oral de Vida. Os participantes desta pesquisa foram cinco homens que vivenciam o alcoolismo, residentes em um município do estado da Bahia, acompanhados pelo Centro de Atenção Psicossocial álcool e outras drogas. Foi utilizada a entrevista semiestruturada para a coleta de informações, no período de março a abril de 2021, mediante videoconferências pela Plataforma Digital Google Meet. O conteúdo dos relatos orais foi analisado por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo. Observou-se que as atitudes significativas do homem alcoolista foram impactadas pelos desdobramentos da pandemia, principalmente devido à adoção das medidas sanitárias, como o distanciamento social. Identificou-se ainda algumas expressões de sentimentos do homem alcoolista diante das interações familiares e comunitárias na pandemia, a exemplo de medo, desconfiança e insegurança afetiva, e exclusão social, além de expressões como fé, gratidão e esperança. Os participantes expressaram em suas falas atitudes de mudanças no convívio social e nos hábitos nesse período pandêmico, incluindo o uso de máscaras e álcool em gel além da diminuição no consumo do álcool para a maioria deles. Afirma-se então, que as interações simbólicas provenientes do cenário pandêmico promoveram atitudes de proteção que englobam o autocuidado e o cuidado coletivo, além de interações marcadas por conflitos familiares.

This study aimed to understand the meaningful attitudes of alcoholic men and their expressions of feelings in the face of family and community interactions in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a qualitative, descriptive, exploratory study, based on the Oral History of Life method. The participants of this study were five men who experience alcoholism, living in a municipality in the state of Bahia, accompanied by the Psychosocial Care Center for alcohol and other drugs. A semi-structured interview was used to collect information, from March to April 2021, through videoconferences through the Google Meet Digital Platform. The content of the oral reports was analyzed using a content analysis technique. It was observed that the significant attitudes of the alcoholic man were impacted by the unfolding of the pandemic, mainly due to the adoption of sanitary measures, such as social distancing. Some expressions of feelings were also identified of these men facing family and community interactions during the pandemic, such as fear, distrust, and affective insecurity, and social exclusion, in addition to expressions such as faith, gratitude, and hope. The participants' discourses expressed attitudes of changes in social life and habits during this pandemic period, including the use of masks and gel alcohol in addition to the decrease in alcohol consumption for most of them. Therefore, the symbolic interactions arising from the pandemic scenario promoted protective attitudes that encompass self-care and collective care, in addition to interactions marked by family conflicts.

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The Brazilian strategy to overcome the spread of COVID-19 has been particularly criticized due to the lack of a national coordinating effort and an appropriate testing program. Here, a successful approach to control the spread of COVID-19 transmission is described by the engagement of public (university and governance) and private sectors (hospitals and oil companies) in Macaé, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a city known as the National Oil Capital. In 2020 between the 17th and 38th epidemiological week, over two percent of the 206,728 citizens were subjected to symptom analysis and RT-qPCR testing by the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, with positive individuals being notified up to 48 h after swab collection. Geocodification and spatial cluster analysis were used to limit COVID-19 spreading in Macaé. Within the first semester after the outbreak of COVID-19 in Brazil, Macaé recorded 1.8% of fatalities associated with COVID-19 up to the 38th epidemiological week, which was at least five times lower than the state capital (10.6%). Overall, considering the successful experience of this joint effort of private and public engagement in Macaé, our data suggest that the development of a similar strategy countrywise could have contributed to a better control of the COVID-19 spread in Brazil. Quarantine decree by the local administration, comprehensive molecular testing coupled to scientific analysis of COVID-19 spreading, prevented the catastrophic consequences of the pandemic as seen in other populous cities within the state of Rio de Janeiro and elsewhere in Brazil.

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The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has been affecting the world, causing severe pneumonia and acute respiratory syndrome, leading people to death. Therefore, the search for anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds is pivotal for public health. Natural products may present sources of bioactive compounds; among them, flavonoids are known in literature for their antiviral activity. Siparuna species are used in Brazilian folk medicine for the treatment of colds and flu. This work describes the isolation of 3,3',4'-tri-O-methyl-quercetin, 3,7,3',4'-tetra-O-methyl-quercetin (retusin), and 3,7-di-O-methyl-kaempferol (kumatakenin) from the dichloromethane extract of leaves of Siparuna cristata (Poepp. & Endl.) A.DC., Siparunaceae, using high-speed countercurrent chromatography in addition to the investigation of their inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV-2 viral replication. Retusin and kumatakenin inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 and Calu-3 cells, with a selective index greater than lopinavir/ritonavir and chloroquine, used as control. Flavonoids and their derivatives may stand for target compounds to be tested in future clinical trials to enrich the drug arsenal against coronavirus infections. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43450-021-00162-5.

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INTRODUCTION: The outbreak of the disease caused by the new coronavirus (COVID-19) has been affecting society's routine and its patterns of interaction worldwide, in addition to the impact on the global economy. To date, there is still no clinically effective treatment for this comorbidity, and drug repositioning might be a good strategy considering the established clinical safety profile. In this context, since COVID-19 affects the respiratory tract, a promising approach would be the pulmonary drug delivery. OBJECTIVE: Identify repurposing drug candidates for the treatment of COVID-19 based on the data of ongoing clinical trials and in silico studies and also assess their potential to be applied in formulations for pulmonary administration. METHOD: A integrative literature review was conducted between June and July 2020, by extracting the results from Clinical Trials, PubMed, Web of Science and Science Direct databases. RESULTS: By crossing the results obtained from diverse sources, 21 common drugs were found, from which only 4 drugs presented studies of pulmonary release formulations, demonstrating the need for greater investment and incentive in this field. CONCLUSION: Even though the lung is a target that facilitates viral infection and replication, formulations for pulmonary delivery of suitable drugs are still lacking for COVID-19 treatment. However, it is indisputable that the pandemic constitutes a concrete demand, with a profound impact on public health, and that, with the appropriate investments, it will give the pharmaceutical industry an opportunity to reinforce the pulmonary delivery field.