An unusual case of late-onset systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with digital gangrene

@#Digital gangrene is an uncommon initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rarely in late-onset disease. This case presents a 50-year-old woman who developed digital gangrene and was subsequently diagnosed with SLE. Early treatment with immunosuppression and anticoagulation halted the progression of the digital ischemia. This case highlights that late-onset SLE, often described as having a more benign and insidious course, can also present with catastrophic limb-threatening manifestations.

Associations Between Work Characteristics, Engaged Well-Being at Work, and Job Attitudes — Findings from a Longitudinal German Study

Objective@#The Job Demand & Resources model suggests work characteristics are related to mental well-being and work engagement. Previous work describes the development of a combined construct ‘engaged well-being at work’ (EWB). To what extent changes in measures of this construct are responsive to changes in job demands and resources or associated with changes in job-related attitudes has not been established. @*Methods@#Longitudinal employee-level data from three waves (German Linked Personnel Panel) were used. Logistic and linear fixed effects regression analyses explored longitudinal associations between changes in EWB for participants over a three-year period with changes in job demands and resources and job-related attitudes (job commitment, satisfaction, and turnover intentions). @*Results@#While job resources were associated with increased odds for a change into a healthier and/or more engaged category of EWB, job demands reduced them. Job resources were more strongly related to higher EWB (ORrange = 1.22 – 1.61) than job demands (ORrange = 0.79 – 0.96). Especially psychological job demands showed negative associations with improved EWB (OR = 0.79). A change from the least desirable category ‘disengaged strain’ to any other category of EWB was associated with greater odds by up to 20.6 % for increased commitment and job satisfaction and lower odds for turnover intentions.DiscussionImproving work characteristics, especially job resources, could increase employees' EWB, emphasizing the importance of job characteristics for a healthy workplace. Because EWB seems to be associated with job attitudes, an improvement of this indicator would be relevant for employees and employers.

Standardization of an experimental model of intradural injection after spinal cord injury in rats

OBJECTIVES: The intrathecal route has not yet been thoroughly standardized and evaluated in an experimental model of spinal cord injury (SCI) in Wistar rats. The objective of this study was to standardize and evaluate the effect of intradural injection in this animal model. METHOD: The animals were divided into 6 groups: 1) laminectomy and intradural catheter; 2) laminectomy, intradural catheter and infusion; 3) only SCI; 4) SCI and intradural catheter; 5) SCI, intradural catheter and infusion; and 6) control (laminectomy only). Motor evaluations were performed using the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) scale and the horizontal ladder test; motor evoked potentials were measured for functional evaluation, and histological evaluation was performed as well. All experimental data underwent statistical analysis. RESULTS: Regarding motor evoked potentials, the groups with experimental SCI had worse results than those without, but neither dural puncture nor the injection of intrathecal solution aggravated the effects of isolated SCI. Regarding histology, adverse tissue effects were observed in animals with SCI. On average, the BBB scores had the same statistical behaviour as the horizontal ladder results, and at every evaluated timepoint, the groups without SCI presented scored significantly better than those with SCI (p<0.05). The difference in performance on motor tests between rats with and without experimental SCI persisted from the first to the last test. CONCLUSIONS: The present work standardizes the model of intradural injection in experimental SCI in rats. Intrathecal puncture and injection did not independently cause significant functional or histological changes.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression and their relationship with barriers to physical activity in patients with intermittent claudication

OBJECTIVES: Although the practice of physical exercise in patients with intermittent claudication (IC) is often encouraged, adherence is low. The difficulty in performing physical training may be related to the psychological characteristics of patients with claudication. To verify the association between anxiety and depression symptoms and barriers to physical exercise and walking capacity in patients with IC. METHODS: One-hundred and thirteen patients with a clinical diagnosis of IC were included in the study. Patients underwent clinical evaluation by a vascular surgeon, answered the Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory tests were applied by the psychologist. The patients performed the 6-minute test and reported their barriers to physical activity practice in a questionnaire. RESULTS: Patients with signs of depression had a shorter pain-free walking distance (p=0.015) and total walking distance (p=0.035) compared to patients with no signs of depression. Pain-free walking distance (p=0.29) and total walking distance (p=0.07) were similar between patients with and without signs of anxiety. Patients with symptoms of moderate to severe depression reported more barriers to physical activity practice compared to patients without signs of depression. CONCLUSION: Symptoms of anxiety and depression are prevalent among patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD). Depression symptoms are associated with personal barriers to exercise, while anxiety symptoms are not. The main barriers to physical activity among patients with IC are exercise-induced pain and the presence of other diseases.

Indirect ELISA (iELISA) standardization for the diagnosis of bovine enzootic leukosis / Padronização de um ELISA indireto (iELISA) para diagnóstico da leucose enzoótica bovina

Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is an infectious disease caused by bovine leukemia virus (BLV) that affects cattle worldwide. Agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) was the reference test for EBL diagnosis for many years, but enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed higher sensitivity, was faster to perform, and resulted in an objective reading. However, the importation of ELISA kits is lengthy and expensive, and currently, no AGID kits are available in Brazil. The aim of this work was to standardize an indirect ELISA (iELISA) for EBL diagnosis using BLV antigens produced in Tadarida brasiliensis lung (Tb1Lu) cells, which are Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) free, unlike fetal lamb kidney (FLK) cells, currently used for this purpose. Following standardization, iELISA results were compared with those obtained by AGID and the commercial Chekit Leucose-Serum ELISA. Compared to AGID, iELISA had 94,44% sensitivity, 75.68% specificity, 79.10% positive predictive value (PPV) and 93.30% negative predictive value (NPV), with 84% concordance and a Kappa index of 0.699. Compared to the Chekit Leucose-Serum ELISA, iELISA showed 92.60% sensitivity, 87.09% specificity, 90.27% PPV and 90,00% NPV, with 90.27% concordance and a Kappa index of 0.801. Taking into account the high agreement with the traditional tests and the absence of non-specific reactions with BVDV, the developed assay could be used as diagnostic method to control EBL in Brazil.(AU)

A leucose enzoótica bovina (LEB) é uma doença infecciosa natural dos bovinos com distribuição mundial causada pelo "bovine leukemia virus" (BLV). A imunodifusão em gel de ágar (IDGA) foi considerada por muitos anos o teste de eleição, porém ensaios imunoenzimáticos (ELISA) apresentam sensibilidade mais elevada e leitura mais rápida e objetiva. No entanto, a importação de kits de ELISA é um processo dispendioso e demorado, e atualmente não há kits de IDGA comercialmente disponíveis no Brasil. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi padronizar um ELISA indireto (iELISA) para diagnóstico da LEB utilizando antígenos produzidos a partir do cultivo do BLV em linhagem celular Tadarida brasiliensis "lung" (Tb1Lu) livre de "bovine viral diarrhea virus" (BVDV), diferentemente do que acontece com as linhagens "fetal lamb kidney" (FLK) atualmente utilizadas na produção desses antígenos para uso em ensaios sorológicos. Após a padronização do iELISA, os resultados foram comparados com aqueles obtidos por IDGA e pelo ELISA comercial "Chekit Leucose-Serum". Comparado ao IDGA, o iELISA apresentou 94,44% de sensibilidade, 75,68% de especificidade, valor preditivo positivo (VPP) de 79,1% e valor preditivo negativo (VPN) de 93,3%, com concordância entre os testes de 84% e o índice Kappa 0,699. Quando comparado ao ELISA "Chekit Leucose-Serum", o iELISA apresentou sensibilidade de 92,6%, especificidade de 87,09%, VPP de 90,27% e VPN de 90%, com concordância de 90,27% e o índice Kappa 0,801. Portanto, devido à alta concordância com os testes tradicionais e ausência da ocorrência de reações inespecíficas com BVDV, o ensaio desenvolvido pode ser utilizado como ferramenta diagnóstica para o controle da LEB no Brasil.(AU)

Is physical activity associated with resting heart rate in boys and girls? A representative study controlled for confounders / A atividade física está associada à frequência cardíaca de repouso em meninos e meninas? Estudo representativo controlado para fatores de confusão

Abstract Objective: Investigate the relationship between different domains of physical activity and resting heart rate (RHR) in boys and girls. Method: The sample included 1011 adolescents, aged between 10 and 17 years. RHR was measured by a heart rate monitor and physical activity was assessed in total and in three different domains (school, occupational, and sports practice) by a questionnaire. Anthropometry was directly obtained for body mass index and central fat. Ethnicity, sedentary behavior, and smoking habits were self-reported and used to adjust the analysis, through hierarchical linear regression. Results: Total physical activity was associated with low RHR in boys (β = −0.52; 95% CI: −0.92, −0.12) and girls (β = −0.67; 95% CI: −1.07, −0.28). Although sporting physical activities were associated with low RHR in both boys (β = −0.58; 95% CI: −1.05, −0.11) and girls (β = −0.87; 95% CI: −1.34, −0.39), occupational physical activity was related to low RHR only in boys (β = −1.56; 95% CI: −2.99, −0.14). Conclusion: The practice of physical activity in the sport practice domain and total physical activity were related to low RHR in both sexes, while occupational physical activities were associated with RHR only in boys.

Resumo Objetivo Investigar a relação entre diferentes domínios de atividade física e frequência cardíaca de repouso (FCRep) em meninos e meninas. Método A amostra incluiu 1.011 adolescentes, entre 10 e 17 anos. A FCRep foi medida por um monitor de frequência cardíaca e a atividade física foi avaliada no total e em três diferentes domínios (escolar, ocupacional e prática esportiva) através de um questionário. A antropometria foi obtida diretamente para o índice de massa corporal e gordura central. Etnia, comportamento sedentário e tabagismo foram autorrelatados e usados para ajustar a análise, através da regressão linear hierárquica. Resultados A atividade física total foi associada à baixa FCRep nos meninos (β = −0,52; IC95% −0,92; −0,12) e meninas (β = −0,67; IC95% −1,07; −0,28). Embora as atividades físicas esportivas estivessem associadas à baixa FCRep em ambos, meninos (β = −0,58; IC95% −1,05, −0,11) e meninas (β = −0,87; IC95% −1,34, −0,39), a atividade física ocupacional estava relacionada à baixa FCRep apenas em meninos (β = −1,56; IC95% −2,99; −0,14). Conclusão A prática de atividade física no domínio da prática esportiva e a atividade física total foram relacionadas à baixa FCRep em ambos os sexos, enquanto as atividades físicas ocupacionais foram associadas à FCRep apenas em meninos.

Health self-perception and its association with physical activity and nutritional status in adolescents / Autopercepção de saúde e sua associação com atividade física e estado nutricional em adolescentes

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the association between total physical activities, physical activity in free time and nutritional status with self-perceived health in adolescents of both genders. Methods: This is a quantitative study that integrates the school-based, cross-sectional epidemiological survey with statewide coverage, whose sample consisted of 6261 adolescents (14 -19 years old) selected by random conglomerate sampling. Data were collected using the Global School-based Student Health Survey. The chi-squared test (χ 2) and the Poisson regression model with robust variance were used in the data analyses. Results: It was observed that 27.3% of the adolescents had a negative health self-perception, which was higher among girls (33.0% vs. 19.0%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, it was observed that boys who did not practice physical activity during free time (PR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.15 -1.81) and were classified as insufficiently active (PR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.04 -1.56), as well as girls who did not practice physical activity during free time (PR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.02 -1.29) and were classified as overweight (PR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.01 -1.29) had a greater chance of negative health self-perception. Conclusion: Behavioral issues may have different effects on health self-perception when comparing boys with girls. Negative health self-perception was associated with nutritional status in girls and a lower level of physical activity in boys, and the practice of physical activity in the free time was considered a protective factor against a negative health self-perception for adolescents of both genders.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre atividade física total, atividade física no tempo livre e estado nutricional com a autopercepção de saúde em adolescentes de ambos os sexos. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo com abordagem quantitativa, que integra o levantamento epidemiológico transversal de base escolar e abrangência estadual, cuja amostra foi constituída por 6.261 adolescentes (14 a 19 anos) selecionados por meio de uma estratégia de amostragem aleatória de conglomerados. Os dados foram coletados a partir do questionário Global School-based Student Health Survey. O teste de qui-quadrado (χ2) e o modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta foram usados nas análises dos dados. Resultados: Observou-se que 27,3% dos adolescentes tinham uma autopercepção de saúde negativa, maior entre as meninas (33,0% vs. 19,0%; p < 0,001). Após o ajuste pelos potenciais fatores de confusão, constatou-se que tinham maior chance de ter uma autopercepção de saúde negativa os meninos que não praticavam atividade física no tempo livre (RP = 1,44; IC 95%: 1,15-1,81) e que eram classificados como insuficientemente ativos (RP = 1,27; IC 95%: 1,04-1,56) e as meninas que não praticavam atividade física no tempo livre (RP = 1,15; IC 95%: 1,02-1,29) e que eram classificadas como sobrepesadas (RP = 1,27; IC 95%: 1,01-1,29). Conclusão: Questões comportamentais podem ter diferentes repercussões na autopercepção de saúde quando comparados os meninos e meninas. A autopercepção de saúde negativa esteve associada ao estado nutricional entre as meninas e a um menor nível de atividade física entre os meninos e a prática de atividade física no tempo livre foi tida como fator de proteção para uma autopercepção de saúde negativa para os adolescentes de ambos os sexos.

Detection of avian metapneumovirus subtype A from wild birds in the State of São Paulo, Brazil / Detecção de metapneumovirus aviário subtipo A em aves silvestres no estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The present study investigated the circulation of avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) in wild birds in Brazil. To do so, 131 samples from 366 oropharyngeal or cloacal swabs collected from 18 species of birds were tested individually or in pools by RT-PCR. Samples detected by RT-PCR were selected for DNA sequencing. Thirteen (9.9%) samples were detected by the RT-PCR targeting the N gene and four out of 13 samples were sequenced. Sequencing results showed a high identity with the aMPV subtype A. Our results confirm the circulation of the aMPV subtype A in wild birds in Brazil even five years after its last detection.(AU)

O presente estudo investigou a circulação de metapneumovírus aviário em aves silvestres no Brasil. Para tanto, 131 amostras de 366 suabes orofaringeanos ou cloacais coletados de 18 espécies de aves foram testadas individualmente ou na forma de pools por RT-PCR. As amostras detectadas por RT-PCR foram selecionadas para sequenciamento. Treze (9,9%) das amostras foram detectadas por RT-PCR tendo o gene N como alvo; destas, quatro foram sequenciadas com sucesso. Resultados do sequenciamento mostraram alta identidade com o aMPV de subtipo A. Nossos resultados confirmam a circulação de aMPV subtipo A em aves silvestres no Brasil mesmo cinco anos após sua última detecção.(AU)

Transformational Leadership and Depressive Symptoms in Germany: Validation of a Short Transformational Leadership Scale / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: The objective of the present study was to validate a shortened transformational leadership (TL) scale (12 items) comprising core TL behaviour and to test the associations of this shortened TL scale with depressive symptoms. METHODS: The study used cross-sectional data from 1632 employees of the overall workforce of a middle-sized German company (51.6% men; mean age, 41.35 years; standard deviation, 9.4 years). TL was assessed with the German version of the Transformational Leadership Inventory and depressive symptoms with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The structural validity of the core TL scale was assessed with confirmatory factor analysis. Associations with depressive symptoms were estimated with structural equation modelling and adjusted logistic regression. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling showed better model fit for the core TL than for the full TL score. Logistic regression revealed 3.61-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.20 to 5.93: women) to 4.46-fold (95% CI, 2.86 to 6.95: men) increased odds of reporting depressive symptoms (HADS score >8) for those in the lowest tertile of reported core TL. CONCLUSIONS: The shortened core TL seems to be a valid instrument for research and training purposes in the context of TL and depressive symptoms in employees. Of particular note, men reporting poor TL were more likely to report depressive symptoms.

Transformational Leadership and Depressive Symptoms in Germany: Validation of a Short Transformational Leadership Scale / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES@#The objective of the present study was to validate a shortened transformational leadership (TL) scale (12 items) comprising core TL behaviour and to test the associations of this shortened TL scale with depressive symptoms.@*METHODS@#The study used cross-sectional data from 1632 employees of the overall workforce of a middle-sized German company (51.6% men; mean age, 41.35 years; standard deviation, 9.4 years). TL was assessed with the German version of the Transformational Leadership Inventory and depressive symptoms with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The structural validity of the core TL scale was assessed with confirmatory factor analysis. Associations with depressive symptoms were estimated with structural equation modelling and adjusted logistic regression.@*RESULTS@#Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling showed better model fit for the core TL than for the full TL score. Logistic regression revealed 3.61-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.20 to 5.93: women) to 4.46-fold (95% CI, 2.86 to 6.95: men) increased odds of reporting depressive symptoms (HADS score >8) for those in the lowest tertile of reported core TL.@*CONCLUSIONS@#The shortened core TL seems to be a valid instrument for research and training purposes in the context of TL and depressive symptoms in employees. Of particular note, men reporting poor TL were more likely to report depressive symptoms.

Acute blood pressure responses after different isometric handgrip protocols in hypertensive patients

OBJECTIVE: The present study analyzed blood pressure responses after a single session of isometric handgrip exercise performed with different volumes and intensities by patients with hypertension. METHODS: This randomized crossover trial submitted 12 hypertensive patients (58±5 years old) to four isometric handgrip exercise sessions in a random order: 4 x 2 min at 30% of the maximal voluntary contraction (S30%); 4 x 2 min at 50% of the maximal voluntary contraction (S50%2min); 4 x 3 min at 30% of the maximal voluntary contraction (S30%3min); and a control session. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and rate-pressure product were measured pre- and post-exercise (30th min). RESULTS: No significant changes were observed in cardiovascular variables after any session (p>0.05 for all comparisons). Similarly, individual analyses revealed heterogeneity in the responses, including increases in blood pressure observed in some sessions. Patients with reduced blood pressure after an isometric handgrip exercise session exhibited a higher body mass index, diastolic blood pressure and heart rate (p<0.05). They also tended to be younger (p=0.07). CONCLUSION: Isometric handgrip exercise performed with different intensities and volumes did not reduce the blood pressure of hypertensive patients.

Effects of isometric handgrip training in patients with cardiovascular disease: rationale and design of the ISOPRESS network

Meta-analytical studies have indicated that isometric handgrip training promotes significant reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive patients with similar or greater decreases in blood pressure than observed after aerobic and dynamic resistance training. However, several gaps in the literature still need to be addressed. Thus, we designed the ISOPRESS network group, which consists of a task force of different research groups aimed at analyzing the effects of isometric handgrip training on different contexts, parameters, and populations. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the rationale and design behind the ISOPRESS, presenting the methods employed. The ISOPRESS questions involve whether isometric handgrip training is effective in hypertensives in different settings (ISOPRESS 1 - unsupervised training and ISOPRESS 2 - public health system), whether it works in patients with other cardiovascular diseases (ISOPRESS 3 - obstructive sleep apnea and ISOPRESS 4 - peripheral artery disease) and what are the mechanisms underlying the effects of isometric handgrip training in hypertensives (ISOPRESS 5 - neural mechanism). The study will yield information on the effectiveness of isometric handgrip training in different settings and patients with other cardiovascular diseases. Finally, it will help to understand the mechanisms involved in reducing blood pressure in hypertensives.(AU)

Association between general and abdominal obesity with high blood pressure: difference between genders / Associação entre a obesidade geral e abdominal com a pressão arterial elevada: diferença entre gêneros

Abstract Objective: To assess the association between general and abdominal obesity with high blood pressure in adolescents of both genders from the public school system. Methods: This was an epidemiological, descriptive, exploratory study, with a quantitative approach and local scope whose sample consisted of 481 high school students (aged 14–19), selected by using a random cluster sampling strategy. Blood pressure was measured through the use of automated monitor and was considered high when the pressure values were at or above the 95th percentile. The analyses were performed using the chi-squared test and binary logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of high blood pressure was 6.4%, and it was higher among boys (9.0% vs. 4.7%, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between general (p = 0.903) and abdominal obesity (p = 0.157) when genders were compared. After adjusting for age, high blood pressure was associated with general (OR = 6.4; p < 0.001) and abdominal obesity (OR = 7.0; p < 0.001) only among boys, when comparing the fourth quartile with the first quartile of body mass index (≤18.6 kg/m2 vs. ≥23.5 kg/m2) and waist circumference (≤69 cm vs. ≥80.1 cm). Conclusion: It was observed that general and abdominal obesity are associated with high blood pressure only in boys, regardless of age.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre obesidade geral e abdominal com a pressão arterial elevada em adolescentes de ambos os gêneros da rede de ensino público. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, descritivo, exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa e abrangência municipal, cuja amostra foi constituída de 481 estudantes (14-19 anos) do ensino médio, selecionados por meio de uma estratégia de amostragem aleatória de cluster. A pressão arterial foi medida com equipamentos automáticos e considerada elevada quando os valores pressóricos estivessem iguais ou acima do percentil 95. As análises foram feitas com os testes de qui-quadrado e da regressão logística binária. Resultados: A prevalência de pressão arterial elevada foi de 6,4%, maior entre os rapazes (9% vs. 4,7%, p < 0,05). Não foi observada diferença significante entre a obesidade geral (p = 0,903) e abdominal (p = 0,157) quando comparados os gêneros. Após o juste pela idade, a pressão arterial elevada foi associada com a obesidade geral (OR = 6,4; p < 0,001) e abdominal (OR = 7,0; p < 0,001) apenas entre os rapazes, quando comparado o quarto quartil com o primeiro quartil do índice de massa corporal (≤ 18,6 Kg/m2 vs. ≥23,5 Kg/m2) e da circunferência da cintura (≤ 69 cm vs. ≥80,1 cm). Conclusão: Foi observado que a obesidade geral e abdominal está associada com a pressão arterial elevada apenas entre os rapazes, independentemente da idade.

Survey of Bioluminescent Coleoptera in the Atlantic Rain Forest of Serra da Paranapiacaba in São Paulo State (Brazil) / Levantamento de Coleópteros bioluminescentes na Mata Atlântica da Serra da Paranapiacaba

Brazil is the country with the largest number of bioluminescent beetle species in the world. However, estimates suggest that this number could much be higher, since many species remain to be discovered. In this work we made a survey of the species of bioluminescent beetles in Serra de Paranapiacaba - the largest remnant of Atlantic Forest in São Paulo State. The survey was done at Intervales State Park, Carlos Botelho State Park and municipality of Tapiraí and the following species were collected: Aspisoma lineatum, Aspisoma physonotum, Aspisoma fenestrata, Cratomorphus besckey, Cratomorphus distinctus, Photinus penai, Photinus sp1, Photinus sp9, Ethra aff. malledicta or axilaris, Ethra aff. adicta , Lucidotini incertae sedis, Cladodes flabellicornis, Cladodes demoulini, Amydetes lucernuta, Bicellonycha sp8, Bicellonycha ornaticollis, Pyrogaster lunifer, Pyrogaster moestus, Pyrogaster sp2, Pyrogaster sp5, Pyrogaster sp6, Photuris lugubris, Photuris sp1, Photuris sp7, Stenophrixotrix sp1, Brasilocerus sp1, Pseudophengodes sp1, Hapsodrilus pyrotis, Hypsiophtalmus sp1, Ptesimopsia luculenta, Pyroptesis cincticollis, Pyrearinus brevicolis, Pyrearinus candelarius, Pyrearinus micatus, Pyrophorus divergens. Our data show that Serra de Paranapiacaba is the second richest area in São Paulo state, especially in elaterids, with unique species typical of this area and species common to other investigated sites such as the Biological Station of Boracéia (in Salesópolis county) and the urbanized areas in the between Campinas - Sorocaba- São Paulo, originally covered to the Atlantic Rainforest.

O Brasil é o país que possui o maior número de espécies de coleópteros bioluminescentes no mundo. Entretanto, estimativas sugerem que este número possa ser bem maior, dado que muitas espécies ainda não foram descritas. Neste trabalho foi realizado um levantamento das espécies de coleópteros bioluminescentes em três localidades na Serra da Paranapiacaba - a maior área remanescente contígua de Mata Atlântica no país, com associação ao respectivo habitat. No Parque Estadual Intervales, Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho e Tapiraí foram coletadas as seguintes espécies: (Lampyidae) Aspisoma lineatum, Aspisoma physonotum, Aspisoma fenestrata, Cratomorphus besckey, Cratomorphus distinctus, Photinus penai, Photinus sp1, Photinus sp9, Ethra aff. malledicta ou axilaris, Ethra aff. adicta, Lucidotini incertae sedis, Cladodes flabellicornis, Cladodes demoulini, Amydetes sp1, Bicellonycha sp8, Bicellonycha ornaticollis, Pyrogaster lunifer, Pyrogaster moestus, Pyrogaster sp2, Pyrogaster sp5, Pyrogaster sp6, Photuris lugubris, Photuris sp1, Photuris sp7; (Phengodidae) Stenophrixotrix sp1, Brasilocerus sp2, Pseudophengodes sp1; (Elateridae) Hapsodrilus pyrotis, Hypsiophtalmus sp1, Ptesimopsia luculenta, Pyroptesis cincticollis, Pyrearinus brevicolis, Pyrearinus candelarius, Pyrearinus micatus, Pyrophorus divergens. Estes dados mostram que esta constitui a segunda área mais rica em espécies luminescentes do Estado de São Paulo, depois da Est. Biológica de Boracéia, especialmente em elaterídeos, com espécies únicas características destas localidades e espécies comuns è outras áreas investigadas, como as da Estação Biológica de Boracéia (Salesópolis, SP) e áreas urbanizadas no triângulo Campinas - Sorocaba - São Paulo, originalmente cobertas por Mata Atlântica.

Checklist of tidepool fishes from Jericoacoara National Park, southwestern Atlantic, with additional ecological information / Inventário dos peixes de poças de mare do Parque Nacional de Jericoacoara, Atlântico sudoeste, com informações ecológicas adicionais

Ichthyofauna from 29 tidepools in Jericoacoara National Park (Ceará State, Brazil) was sampled. A total of 733 fishes, comprising 16 species belonging to 12 families, was collected. The three most abundant species were the frillfin goby Bathygobius soporator, the sergeant-majorAbudefduf saxatilis and the molly miller Scartella cristata. An invasive species from the Indo-Pacific, the Muzzled blenny Omobranchus punctatus, was also recorded. The known geographic distribution of the blenny Hypleurochilus fissicornis was extended approximately 2,500 km northward. These findings highlight the lack of knowledge of the rocky intertidal ecosystems along the Brazilian coast, an area that needs more sampling effort and ecological data.

Um total de 733 espécimes de peixes, pertencentes a 16 espécies (12 famílias), foi capturado em 29 poças de maré no Parque Nacional de Jericoacoara (Ceará, Brasil). As espécies mais numericamente abundantes foram o amboré Bathygobius soporator, o sargentinho Abudefduf saxatilis e o macaco-verdeScartella cristata. Uma espécie invasora originária do Indo-Pacífico, Omobranchus punctatus, foi registrada para a área. A ocorrência de Hypleurochilus fissicornis permitiu expandir sua distribuição geográfica em cerca de 2.500 km ao norte. Esses resultados demostram que diversos aspectos relacionados a ictiofauna do ecossistema entremarés em substrato consolidado ainda permanecem pouco estudados no Brasil, e portanto, mais levantamentos da biodiversidade e dados ecológicos são necessários.

Body weight dissatisfaction and its correlates among Brazilian adolescents / Insatisfação com peso corporal e correlatos entre adolescentes brasileiros

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction and its relationship to physical activity and nutritional status in adolescents. METHOD: The study enrolled 2,288 adolescents. The dependent variable was body weight dissatisfaction. The independent variables were physical activity and nutritional status. The confounders were gender, and economic condition. Associations between dependent and independent variables were analyzed through the chi-square test and the magnitude of the associations was estimated by Poisson regression. RESULTS: A total of 56.6% of adolescents were not satisfied with their weight, with 17.9% wanting to increase it, while 37.7% wanted to decrease their weight. In boys and girls, body weight dissatisfaction was associated with nutritional status, abdominal obesity and physical activity in crude analyses. After adjustments, nutritional status and abdominal obesity remained significantly associated to body weight dissatisfaction in both sexes. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction was identified, which was associated with the nutritional status and abdominal obesity in adolescents.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Esse estudo teve como objetivo analisar a prevalência de insatisfação com o peso corporal e sua relação com atividade física e estado nutricional em adolescentes. MÉTODO: O estudo envolveu 2.288 adolescentes. A variável dependente foi a insatisfação com o peso corporal. As variáveis independentes foram a atividade física e estado nutricional. Os fatores de confusão foram: sexo e condição econômica. As associações entre as variáveis dependentes e independentes foram analisadas por meio do teste do qui-quadrado e a magnitude das associações foi estimada pela regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS: Um total de 56,6% dos adolescentes não se declararam satisfeitos com seu peso, 17,9% queriam aumentar, enquanto que 37,7% queriam diminuir o seu peso. Entre meninos e meninas, a insatisfação como peso corporal associou-se com o estado nutricional, obesidade abdominal e atividade física em análises primárias. Após os ajustes, o estado nutricional e a obesidade abdominal permaneceram significativamente associados à insatisfação com o peso corporal em ambos os sexos. CONCLUSÕES: Uma elevada prevalência de insatisfação com o peso corporal foi identificada e associada com o estado nutricional e com obesidade abdominal em adolescentes.

Effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy [HAART] on body mass index [BMI], pcv, cd4+t cell count and albumin of HIV seropositive women in Nigeria

To establish the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy [HAART] on some parameters of HIV seropositive women in their reproductive ages in both follicular and luteal phases of their menstrual cycle Prospective and targeted for a particular group of HIV sero-positive women in a tertiary institution in Midwestern Nigeria. University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. A target population of 100 HIV seropositive women of reproductive age [range 18-40 years, mean = 29 years] and 50 seronegative women of same age group [mean = 32 years] as control were recruited before the commencement of HAART therapy. All subjects and controls were monitored at three-monthly intervals for a period of nine months. The parameters that were examined included body mass index [BMI], CD4[+] T cell count, packed cell volume [PCV] and albumin in both follicular and luteal phases of their menstrual cycles. HAART significantly [p < 0.05] raised BMI, CD4[+/] T cell count, PCV and albumin in both phases of the study. These parameters were initially significantly decreased by HIV infection. HAART has demonstrated great promise in the management of HIV seropositive women. More studies are encouraged to determine how HAART can maintain its current high level of efficiency in these women

Low-intensity resistance exercise does not affect cardiac autonomic modulation in patients with peripheral artery disease

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of a single bout of resistance exercise on cardiac autonomic modulation in patients with peripheral artery disease. METHODS: Fifteen patients with peripheral artery disease (age: 58.3±4.0 years) underwent the following sessions in a random order: resistance exercise (three sets of 10 repetitions of the six resistance exercises with a workload of 5-7 in the OMNI-RES scale) and control (similar to the resistance session; however, the resistance exercises were performed with no load). The frequency domain (low frequency, high frequency and sympathovagal balance) and symbolic analysis (0V, 1V and 2V patterns) of heart rate variability were obtained before and until one hour after the interventions. RESULTS: After the resistance exercise and control sessions, similar increases were observed in the consecutive heartbeat intervals (control: 720.8±28.6 vs. 790.9±34.4 ms; resistance exercise: 712.9±30.1 vs. 756.8±37.9 ms; p<0.05) and in the pattern of the symbolic analysis with no variation (0V) (control: 25.1±3.5 vs. 33.4±4.1%; resistance exercise: 26.1±3.2 vs. 29.7±3.5%; p<0.05) until 50 min after both interventions. The pattern of two variations (2V) decreased similarly (control: 11.2±2.1 vs. 8.3±2.1%; resistance exercise: 9.5±1.7 vs. 7.8±1.7%; p<0.05). In contrast, the pattern of one variation (1V), the low and high frequency bands and sympathovagal balance did not change after the interventions (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: A single bout of resistance exercise did not alter cardiac autonomic modulation in patients with peripheral artery disease. .

Diferenças na mortalidade por câncer rural/urbana: um estudo de caso do nordeste da Grécia / Rural/urban disparities in cancer mortality: a case-study from northeast Greece

Uma abordagem epidemiológica descritiva foi realizada a fim de abordar a questão das disparidades rural/urbana da mortalidade por câncer no nordeste da Grécia. O método de normalização direta foi usado para controlar as diferenças na distribuição da faixa etária entre as duas regiões. A região A era altamente urbanizada (>90%) e a região B, predominantemente, agrícola. O registro dos casos foi realizado de acordo com o protocolo da CID10 da Organização Mundial de Saúde. Foram observados resultados estatisticamente significativos para mortalidade por câncer de próstata, que foi 86% maior na área rural em oposição aos indivíduos de áreas urbanas (RR=1,86, IC95% 1,10?3,14). Em outros tipos de câncer (por exemplo, câncer de estômago) um efeito coorte pode estar presente, necessitando assim mais investigações sobre a hipótese. Desigualdades socioeconômicas, tais como acesso a cuidados de saúde e educação, são fatores fundamentais para a erradicação das disparidades rural/urbana na mortalidade por câncer. As intervenções devem centrar-se na promoção da saúde e conscientização, especialmente abordando a importância do rastreamento precoce e diagnóstico de câncer.

Apport de l'immunohistochimie dans le diagnostic des lymphomes B agressifs chez les patients infectes ou non par le VIH en Republique democratique du Congo

Objectif. Determiner la contribution potentielle des techniques immunohistochimiques au diagnostic; et dans la prise en charge therapeutique des lymphomes-B agressifs chez des patients infectes ou non par le VIH; en R D Congo; dans le but de vulgarisation de cette approche; complementaire a l'etude morphologique; et indispensable pour le sous-typage de lymphomes; en particulier; de lymphomes-B agressifs. Methodes. Etude transversale et retrospective de 101 blocs de paraffine portant le diagnostic de lymphome et analyses entre 2005 et 2010; par des techniques morphologiques et immunohistochimiques; dans six laboratoires specialises de notre pays. Resultats. Les 81 blocs retenus; etaient tous CD20 positifs et CD3 negatifs; mais le profil etait variable pour d'autres marqueurs etudies. Le lymphome de Burkitt a ete identifie sur 40 blocs; incluant 7 sujets VIH+ (17;5); les lymphomes B diffus a grandes cellules; sur 35; avec 11; chez les VIH+ (31;4).Six lymphomes de forme intermediaire; dont 3; chez des sujets VIH+ (50). Conclusion. Cette etude a permis de classifier les lymphomes-B agressifs dans notre contexte; grace a l'immunohistochimie; justifiant le recours aux anticorps anti-CD20 pour leur traitement