Assessment of maternal knowledge of solar exposure and vitamin D in the neonatal period / Avaliação do conhecimento materno sobre exposição solar e vitamina D no período neonatal

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess mothers' knowledge on sun exposure related to serum vitamin D levels in the neonatal period. Methods: Observational, analytical and cross-sectional study, carried out from August 2020 to May 2021 through a questionnaire directed to mothers of newborns, in a maternity hospital in Southern Brazil. Results: From 141 interviewees, 132 (93.6%) believe it is important to expose the neonate to sun, 101 (71.6%) think this exposure can increase vitamin D levels, 86 (61%) received such information from a doctor, 108 (76.6%) believe there are no risks of sun exposure, 88 (62.4%) claim it isn´t necessary to use any kind of protection, 96 (68.1%) said that only exposure to the sun was necessary to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D during the neonatal period. Only two mothers (1.4%) claim that you should not exposure the neonate to the sun, and only one (0.7%) stated that sun expose can cause skin problems. Conclusions: Most mothers lack satisfactory knowledge about sun exposure related to serum vitamin D levels in the neonatal period. The need to inform and clarify the population about sun exposure during this period is remarkable, in addition to disseminating the proper way to maintain serum levels of vitamin D.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento das mães acerca da exposição solar relacionada com níveis séricos de vitamina D no período neonatal. Métodos: Estudo observacional, analítico e transversal, realizado de agosto de 2020 a maio de 2021 por meio de questionário dirigido às mães de recém-nascidos, em uma maternidade no sul do Brasil. Resultados: De 141 entrevistadas, 132 (93,6%) acreditam ser importante expor o lactente ao sol no primeiro mês de vida, 101 (71,6%) acham que essa exposição aumenta os níveis de vitamina D, 86 (61,0%) receberam tal informação de um médico, 108 (76,6%) acreditam que expor o neonato ao sol não causa riscos para a saúde, 88 (62,4%) acham que não é necessário usar proteção contra radiação solar ao expor o neonato ao sol, e 96 (68,1%) afirmaram que apenas a exposição ao sol basta para manter os níveis adequados de vitamina D durante o período neonatal. Apenas duas mães (1,4%) afirmaram que não se deve expor o neonato ao sol e uma (0,7%) que a exposição solar pode causar problemas de pele. Conclusões: A maioria das mães não possui conhecimento satisfatório acerca da exposição solar relacionada aos níveis séricos de vitamina D no período neonatal. É notável a necessidade de informar e esclarecer a população sobre a exposição solar nesse período, além de disseminar a maneira adequada de manter os níveis séricos de vitamina D.

Photic maculopathy: five case reports and literature review / Maculopatia fótica: cinco relatos de caso e revisão de literatura

ABSTRACT Maculopathy from prolonged exposure to solar light is a rare but well-recognized clinical entity of vision loss and macular damage. Photochemical damage precedes visual decline, and in mild cases, vision usually returns fully or partially. With the advancement of humanity, other forms of macular injuries induced by light radiation have emerged, increasing the group of photic maculopathies. In this report, we describe the cases of five patients where a diagnosis of photic maculopathy was made based on the anamnesis, clinical findings, and complementary exams. We compare the five cases regarding their similarities and differences, as well as review the literature on the subject.

RESUMO A maculopatia causada pela exposição prolongada à luz solar é uma entidade clínica rara, mas bem reconhecida, de perda de visão e dano macular. O dano fotoquímico precede o declínio visual e em casos leves a visão geralmente retorna total ou parcialmente. Com o avanço da humanidade, surgiram outras formas de lesões maculares induzidas pela radiação luminosa, aumentando o grupo das maculopatias fóticas. Neste relato, descrevemos os casos de cinco pacientes onde o diagnóstico de maculopatia fótica foi feito com base na anamnese, achados clínicos e exames complementares. Comparamos os quatro casos quanto às suas semelhanças e diferenças, bem como revisamos a literatura sobre o assunto.

Photovoltaics: Panacea to Africa Sustainable Development

African countries are falling behind in attaining the sustainable development goals. They are in dire need of electricity, which had been declared the essential tool to achieve most goals, to meet their population’s utilizable energy requirement. With renewables being globally adopted energy options to save the changing climate and preserve the environment and biodiversity, photovoltaic (PV) is advocated to remedy the energy deficiency for sustainable development. All over Africa indicates viability in PV energy owing to the incident global solar radiation (Gh). Nigeria being a case study shows awareness of PV energy, which has manifested in the attitude towards its penetration and the expected benefits. With the anticipated threat of climate change on PV performances, the projected incident Gh across Nigeria has shown two epochs which are yet viable for PV energy by the year 2100. Foreseeable challenges in the PV penetration and investments have been presented as wrongdoings and whistleblowing is advocated as the policy that will ensure the PV penetration for sustainable development.

Assessment of Rice Yield Sensitivity to Changing Weather Conditions in Prayagraj Using DSSAT V4.7.5 Crop Simulation Model

The Field experiments were conducted during 2012-19 to determine the effect of changing weather such as (Tmax, Tmin, Tavg, Solar radiation and CO2 concentration) on grain yield, LAI, Anthesis days and maturity days of four rice cultivars i.e (Swarna sub 1, Sarjoo 52, Pant Dhan 4 and NDR 359) at the college of forestry farm , SHUATS Prayagraj. The DSSAT-CERES rice model was calibrated and validated, for the cultivars under Prayagraj conditions and it was observed that the values i.e Percent error, RMSE, nRMSE and Pearson correlation coefficient (r) were good in agreement and within permissible limit. Among all the four varieties NDR 359 yields more followed by pant dhan 4, Swarna sub 1 and sarjoo-52. The result revealed that by increasing temperature (Tmax, Tmin, Tavg) for all the variety and phenophases the yield got reduced but under increased condition of Solar radiation and CO2 concentration the yield got increased. In case of LAI same result was observed but during the phenophase of flowering to maturity stage of the crop there was no effect found. During the interaction between changing weather with anthesis days and maturity days it was found that the anthesis days and maturity days got increased with increased in Tmax and Tavg. Other weather parameter has no effect on it. The interaction of weather parameter with the yield, LAI, anthesis days and aturity days were found significant at 5% or 1% level for all the four varieties and henophases. The research outcome indicates that, the future farming will be challengeable due to climate change, we must prepare with suitable varieties and crop management plan to tackle the situation.

Influences of Changes in Rainfall and Solar Radiation on Performance of Kharif Sorghum

Kharif sorghum is an important crop of the northern transition zone (NTZ) of Karnataka. Historically this zone was characterized by the assured and uniform distribution of rainfall during the southwest monsoon. The last decade has witnessed increased erraticity in the onset, progress and distribution of rainfall, but days without rain also remain cloudy for weeks during Kharif season, thus lower the crop canopy, which affects the yield, interrupts solar radiation. Solar radiation, rainfall are the two important climatic factors affecting crop performance, but it is logistically difficult, and resource demanding to artificially create study-growing environment under field conditions. Alternately, Crop Simulation Models can be effectively used for such studies by creating customized weather scenarios within the model. Four rainfall scenarios (±10 and ±20 % over observed) and four solar radiation scenarios (±10 and ±20 % over observed) were created by using 32 years’ observed weather data (1985-2016) within the calibrated and validated DSSAT-CERES-Sorghum model [1].Simulations were run across all the above scenarios for 32 years' seasonal analysis with the best four kharif sorghum cultivars sown across three dates of sowing under the standard package of practices followed for NTZ. Model simulated annual outputs for grain yield over 32 years were averaged and presented. The model simulated results revealed that for NTZ changes in solar radiation was found to have more effect on yield than rainfall. Any reduction in solar radiation over observed drastically reduces the yield. Across cultivars and dates of sowing under observed weather (1985-2016), on average, 1720 kg ha-1 yield was simulated. When solar radiation was reduced by 10 % across rainfall scenarios the average yield was reduced to 1424 kg ha-1 which further reduced to 670 kg ha-1 (61% reduction) when solar radiation was reduced by 20 %. In contrast, when solar radiation was increased by 10 % and 20 %, the model simulated 2967 kg ha-1 and 3181 kg ha-1 yield, respectively which is 42 and 46 % more over the yield of observed weather. This study showed that for NTZ of Karnataka during the Kharif season increased cloudy period will have a more adverse effect on yield than changes to rainfall.

Extrato de Polypodium leucotomos em fotoproteção tópica e oral: dez anos de experiência brasileira / Polypodium leucotomos extract in topical and oral photoprotection: ten years of Brazilian experience

O extrato de Polypodium leucotomos foi inicialmente descrito na literatura internacional há 55 anos, demonstrando ação anti-inflamatória em dermatoses como vitiligo e psoríase. Atualmente, está disponível como fotoprotetor oral e tópico em mais de 26 países e é utilizado na prevenção e no tratamento de dermatoses decorrentes da radiação solar, como erupção polimorfa à luz, melasma, queratoses actínicas, câncer de pele, fotoenvelhecimento, entre outras. No Brasil, o extrato patenteado das folhas de Polypodium leucotomos foi registrado pela Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa) como medicamento em 2012. Decorridos 10 anos de sua introdução no Brasil, sua recomendação por dermatologistas brasileiros está consagrada e será apresentada neste artigo

Polypodium leucotomos extract was first described in the literature 55 years ago, demonstrating anti-inflammatory action in dermatoses such as vitiligo and psoriasis. It is currently available as an oral and topical photoprotection agent in more than 26 countries to prevent and treat dermatoses resulting from solar radiation, such as polymorphous light eruption, melasma, actinic keratoses, skin cancer, and photoaging, among others. In Brazil, ANVISA registered the patented Polypodium leucotomos extract in 2012. After 10 years of its launch, its recommendation by Braziliandermatologists is well established and is presented in this review paper

Sunscreen lotions in the dermatological prescription: review of concepts and controversies

Abstract The skin is regularly exposed to several environmental aggressions, including solar radiation, whose biological effects can induce sunburn, dyschromia, skin aging and cancer. Among the photoprotection measures, sunscreens comprise a relevant part of the strategy aimed to prevent solar radiation damage and, for effective action, the patient must adhere to the product use and the latter, in turn, must follow technical parameters to promote adequate protection. This review article brings together the most current and relevant concepts about photoprotection for dermatological use, including the challenges for their formulation, the risks of certain photoprotective active substances for individual and environmental safety and the importance of stringency in determining the product efficacy, considering the regulatory aspects, highlighting relevant differences between Brazil and other countries. Thus, when assessing a sunscreen, not only the visual aspects and sensory perception will be immediately evaluated, but also the quality and suitability of the vehicle, the chemical composition of the formulation, the environmental risks, the photostability of the screening system, and the measurement of its protection spectrum. Technical knowledge of sunscreens can help dermatologists in this important role of educating patients about the best photoprotective strategies in each situation.

Impact of sowing dates on the yield efficiency of upland rice cultivars

The choice of cultivars adapted to different regions and the determination of the best sowing dates are indispensable tools for crop development. This allows the installation of the crop in times favorable to its development, as well as cultivars that manage to reach their maximum yield potential. The objective of this study was to determine the best sowing dates and the cultivars that can adapt to the low-altitude Cerrado region and have the best development and yield efficiency. The experiment was conducted on a typical clayey dystrophic Red Latosol soil. The experimental design was in randomized blocks in a factorial scheme, comprised by four sowing dates during the spring/summer season (October, November, December, and February) and in each sowing date there were eight upland rice cultivars (BRS Esmeralda, ANa 6005, ANa 5015, IPR 117, IAC 203, IAC 500, ANa 7211 and BRSGO Serra Dourada) with four replicates. Sowing in October and November benefited the aerial dry mass and the spikelets fertility however, sowing in November provided higher plant height, which caused lodging in plants. Sowing in December caused the incidence of scald, mainly affecting the cultivar ANa 7211. For all cultivars, sowing in October favored the yield efficiency of upland rice in the low-altitude Cerrado, followed by sowing in November. The cultivars which demonstrated higher yield efficiency in the conditions of the region were BRS Esmeralda and ANa 5015.

Algae Metabolites as an Alternative in Prevention and Treatment of Skin Problems Associated with Solar Radiation and Conventional Photo-protection

Abstract The histological structure and biochemistry of the skin is affected by solar radiation having adverse effects ranging from sunburns, premature aging that includes wrinkles, spots, dryness, and loss of collagen to cancer development. The skin has defense mechanisms to prevent damage caused by radiation, but when radiation exposure is excessive these mechanisms are not strong enough to protect the skin. The use of sunscreen is the most common practice of photo- protection. The active ingredients of these cosmetic protective formulations are generally from synthetic origin and have presented several drawbacks at the level of photo-stability, systemic absorption and can generate contact and photo-contact dermatitis. This review illustrates skin solar radiation problems, common sunscreen ingredients limitation and mentions how algae can be an alternative according to studies that have evaluated the photo-protective potential of extracts and compounds isolated by different techniques.

Fotoproteção na atenção básica / Photoprotection in primary care

Introdução: A irradiação solar é a principal causa de fotodano crônico à pele humana. Dentre os malefícios causados pela radiação ultravioleta (RUV) destacam-se discromias, queimaduras, alterações pigmentares, imunossupressão cutânea e estímulo ao processo de carcinogênese. Objetivo: o estudo objetivou investigar a aplicação de medidas de fotoproteção em pacientes atendidos na Atenção Básica por acadêmicos do curso de graduação em Medicina e também analisar os hábitos de vida dos pacientes quanto a fotoexposição e a fotoproteção diárias dos mesmos. Métodos: Participaram da pesquisa 160 pacientes de ambos os gêneros, maiores de 18 anos, atendidos na Atenção Básica de um município da Serra Catarinense por acadêmicos do curso de graduação em Medicina. Os acadêmicos de medicina aplicaram um questionário visando conhecer o perfil socioeconômico dos entrevistados, bem como os hábitos de fotoproteção do mesmo. A pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Animais e Seres Humanos da Universidade do Planalto Catarinense (parecer número 2407927). Resultados: Observou-se que as medidas fotoprotetivas utilizadas pelos entrevistados são insuficientes e, quando presentes, são utilizadas de forma inadequada. Conclusão: Conclui-se que os pacientes atendidos na Atenção Básica estão expostos à radiação solar em horários inadequados e sem a devida proteção estando propensos, portanto, ao desenvolvimento do câncer da pele, dentre outras alterações cutâneas, num futuro não longínquo.

Introduction: Solar radiation is the main cause of chronic photodamage to human skin. The harm caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) includes mostly dyschromias, burns, pigmentary changes, cutaneous immunosuppression and stimulation of the carcinogenesis process. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the application of photoprotection measures in patients treated in primary care by undergraduate medical students and also to analyze patients' life habits regarding their daily sunlight exposure and photoprotection. Methods: A total of 160 patients of both genders, over 18 years old, attended to in primary care of a municipality in Serra Catarinense by undergraduate medical students participated in the research. The medical students administered a questionnaire in order to know the socioeconomic profile of the interviewees, as well as their photoprotection habits. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee for Research with Animals and Humans of the Universidade do Planalto Catarinense (opinion number 2407927). Results: It was observed that the photoprotective measures used by the interviewees are insufficient and, when present, are used inappropriately. Conclusion: It is concluded that patients seen in primary care are exposed to solar radiation at inappropriate times and without proper protection, thus becoming prone to developing skin cancer, among other skin changes, in the not-too-distant future.

Comparação entre métodos de estimativa de evapotranspiração de referência no município de São José dos Ausentes (RS), Brasil / Comparison between methods of estimation of reference evapotranspiration in the municipality of São José dos Ausentes (RS), Brazil

RESUMO A evapotranspiração de referência é uma componente muito importante do balanço hídrico e sua estimativa é essencial para execução de projetos agrícolas e ambientais, estudos de balanço hídrico, projetos e manejo de irrigação, modelagem de processos climatológicos e planejamento do gerenciamento dos recursos hídricos. O método de Penman-Monteith é considerado pela Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations como padrão para estimar a evapotranspiração de referência, contudo, dada a dificuldade de se obter um número grande de variáveis meteorológicas que são empregadas nesse método, tem-se utilizado vários outros métodos para estimar a evapotranspiração de referência. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo comparar, por meio de valores diários e mensais estimados pelo método de Penman-Monteith, o desempenho dos métodos de Thornthwaite, Hargraves-Samani, Makkink, Blaney-Criddle, Camargo e Jensen-Haise para o município de São José dos Ausentes, no Rio Grande do Sul. Os dados utilizados para estimar a evapotranspiração de referência foram obtidos pelo sistema Agritempo, que armazena e disponibiliza os dados da estação meteorológica automática do Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia. Os resultados apontam que o método de Blaney-Criddle foi o que apresentou os melhores resultados nas escalas tanto diária quanto mensal, seguido pelo método de Jensen-Haise, na escala mensal. Já os métodos que apresentaram os piores desempenhos foram o de Thorntwaite e Camargo, sendo classificados com desempenho "sofrível" na escala mensal e como "péssimo" e "mau", respectivamente, na escala diária.

ABSTRACT Reference evapotranspiration is a very important component of the water balance and its estimation is essential for the execution of agricultural and environmental projects, for studies of water balance, irrigation projects and management, modeling of climatological processes and planning of water resources management. The Penman-Monteith method is considered by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations as a standard for estimating reference evapotranspiration; however, due to the difficulty of obtaining a large number of meteorological variables that are employed in this method, several other methods have been used to estimate the reference evapotranspiration. The present coursework had the objective to compare the performance of the Thornthwaite, Hargraves-Samani, Makkink, Blaney-Criddle, Camargo, and Jensen-Haise methods for the municipality of São José dos Ausentes, using daily and monthly values estimated by the Penman-Monteith method. The data used to estimate the reference evapotranspiration were obtained through the Agritempo system, which stores and makes available the data of the automatic meteorological station of the National Meteorological Institute. The results show that the Blaney-Criddle method presented the best results, both daily and monthly, followed by the Jensen-Haise method in the monthly scale. On the other hand, the methods that presented the worst performances were those of Thorntwaite and Camargo, classified as "poor" on the monthly scale, and as "terrible" and "bad", respectively, on the daily one.

Hábitos sobre fotoprotección en pacientes de consulta dermatológica / Habits about photoprotection in dermatological consultation patients

La exposición excesiva al sol constituye una de las causas más comunes de enfermedades cutá-neas. El objetivo de la investigación fue describir los hábitos de fotoprotección de pacientes atendidos en la consulta de dermatología del área III de salud, en el municipio Cienfuegos, Cuba, durante el período comprendido entre los meses de enero y mayo de 2020. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal, cuya población estuvo constituida por 3045 pacientes, de los que se seleccionó una muestra de 1066 individuos a través de un muestreo no probabilístico por sujetos voluntarios. Los datos fueron recolectados mediante la aplicación de un cuestionario cerrado, el que fue validado por criterio de especialistas. El estudio contó con la aprobación del Comité de Ética de la Investigación de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas Dr. "Raúl Dorticós Torrado" de Cienfuegos, Cuba. El grupo con más de 59 años resultó el más representado (37,8%), mientras que los menores de 15 años (6,8%) fue el menos. El género femenino prevaleció (53,4%). El cuidado de la piel ante la sobreexposición solar fue insuficien-te. Predominaron los que no conocen su tipo de piel y aquellos que no recibieron orientaciones sobre su cuidado. También prevalecieron aquellos cuya declaración indica que nunca realizan autoexamen de este importante órgano y los que no utilizan aditamentos de fotoprotección, espe-cíficamente: sombrero, gorra y sombrilla

Excessive sun exposure is one of the most common causes of skin diseases. This research aimed to describe the photoprotection habits of patients treated in the dermatology consultation of health area III, in the municipality of Cienfuegos, Cuba, during the period between the months of January and May 2020. An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was carried out. The population consisted of 3045 patients, from which a sample of 1066 individuals was selected through a non-probabilistic sampling by volunteer subjects. The data were collected by applying a closed questionnaire, which was validated by specialists' criteria. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Dr. "Raúl Dorticós Torrado" University of Medical Sciences of Cienfuegos, Cuba. The group over 59 years of age was the most represented (37.8%), while those under 15 years of age (6.8%) were the least. The female gender prevailed (53.4%). Skin care for overexposure to the sun was insufficient. Those ones who do not know their skin type and those who did not receive guidance on their care predominated; as well as those ones whose statement indicates that they never perform self-examination of this important organ and those ones who do not use photoprotection accessories, specifically: hat, cap and umbrella

Carcinoma basocelular na face de adolescente não sindrômico: de raridade para uma nova realidade? / Basal Cell Carcinoma in the Face of Non-Syndromic Adolescents: From Rarity to a New Reality?

O aumento na incidência do carcinoma basocelular (CBC) atinge todas as faixas etárias, incluindo jovens abaixo dos 20 anos. Por ser pouco lembrado nesse grupo de pacientes, o atraso no diagnóstico e o tratamento tardio da neoplasia podem ser mais comuns. Assim como para outras faixas etárias, a exposição excessiva à radiação ultravioleta é o principal fator de risco associado, porém fatores genéticos também podem estar envolvidos nos casos não sindrômicos. Descreve-se um caso de CBC na face de um adolescente, tratado com cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs

The increase in the incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) affects all age groups, including young patients under twenty years old. Because it is poorly remembered in this group of patients, late diagnosis and treatment of this neoplasia may be more common. Like other age groups, excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the main associated risk factor; however, genetic factors may also be involved in non-syndromic cases. We report a case of BCC on the face of an adolescent treated with Mohs micrographic surgery

Ação contra o câncer de pele em cidade com alto índice ultravioleta / Action against skin cancer in a city with high ultraviolet index / Acción contra el cáncer de piel en ciudad con elevado índice de radiación ultravioleta

Objetivo: Descrever a experiência de universitários no desenvolvimento de duas ações de conscientização sobre o câncer da pele. Síntese de dados: Os estudantes do curso de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, juntamente com médicos orientadores da Sociedade Brasileira de Dermatologia, elaboraram duas ações de conscientização para o combate ao câncer de pele associando medidas de educação em fotoproteção à aplicação de um questionário, visando ao planejamento futuro de ações mais direcionadas e eficazes. As ações ocorreram em duas praias durante o período de veraneio em 2020. Os banhistas, após responderem às perguntas, receberam orientações a respeito dos hábitos saudáveis de fotoproteção de acordo com o Consenso Brasileiro de Fotoproteção. Conclusão: Os voluntários consideraram êxito no planejamento e execução da ação, com boa aceitação por parte dos banhistas e das entidades contribuintes.

Objective: To describe the experience of university students in developing two campaigns to fight skin cancer. Data synthesis: Medical students from Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, along with supervising physicians from the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, developed two cancer-fighting interventions that associated photo-protection education measures with the application of a questionnaire for future planning of more precise interventions. The actions took place on two beaches during the summer period (2020) in order to reach a greater number of beachgoers. Beachgoers, after answering the questions, were instructed about healthy photoprotection habits according to the Brazilian Consensus on Photoprotection. Conclusion: The volunteers considered success in the planning and execution of the action, with good acceptance on the part of beachgoers and contributing entities.

Objetivo: Describir la experiencia de universitarios para el desarrollo de dos acciones de concienciación sobre el cáncer de piel. Síntesis de datos: Los estudiantes del curso de Medicina de la Universidad Federal de Río Grande de Norte y los médicos tutores de la Sociedad Brasileña de Dermatología crearon dos acciones de concienciación para el combate del cáncer de piel asociando con medidas de educación en foto protección hasta la aplicación de una encuesta con el objetivo de planear acciones futuras más dirigidas y eficaces. Las acciones se dieron en dos playas durante el verano 2020. Tras contestar las preguntas, los bañistas recibieron orientaciones sobre los hábitos saludables de foto protección según el Consenso Brasileño de Foto Protección. Conclusión: Los voluntarios consideraron exitosos el planeamiento y la ejecución de la acción con buena aceptación de parte de los bañistas y de las entidades contribuyentes.

Câncer de Pele e Renda Familiar: um Estudo Ecológico / Skin Cancer and Family Income: an Ecological Study / Cáncer de Piel y Rendimiento Familiar: un Estudio Ecológico

Introdução: Recentemente, houve crescimento da incidência do câncer de pele. Radiação solar, história familiar, imunossupressão, pele clara e idade constituem fatores de risco da doença. Objetivo: Correlacionar a mortalidade do câncer de pele com variáveis socioeconômicas. Método: Estudo ecológico, utilizando a planilha de dados da incidência de radiação solar do projeto aquecedor solar de baixo custo (ASBC), e indicadores de condições de vida do Censo de 2010. Os dados foram exportados para o SPSS 14.0, para analisar a correlação (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman), e as variáveis foram comparadas. Resultados: Associações estatisticamente significantes ocorreram entre o coeficiente de mortalidade por câncer maligno de pele com a renda familiar média (r=-0,316, p<0,006) indicando que, quanto maior a renda, menor a mortalidade por neoplasia maligna, ocorrendo o mesmo com a proporção de óbitos evitáveis em menores de 4 anos (r=-0,292, p<0,01) e a proporção de mortes evitáveis entre 5 e 74 anos (r=-0,372, p<0,001). A proporção da população ganhando menos de 1/2 salário-mínimo (r=0,232, p<0,05) indica que, quanto maior a proporção populacional com renda inferior a 1/2 salário- -mínimo, maior será a mortalidade por neoplasia maligna, similar à proporção da população ganhando menos de 1/4 de salário-mínimo (r=0,229, p<0,05). Conclusão: Sendo um assunto de saúde pública intimamente relacionado à renda, o câncer de pele ainda carece de ações de prevenção primária e secundária.

Introduction: Recently, there has been an increase in the incidence of skin cancer. Solar radiation, family history, immunosuppression, fair skin and age are risk factors for the disease. Objective: To correlate skin cancer mortality with several socioeconomic variables. Method: An ecological study using the Solar Heating at Affordable (ASBC) Project Solar Radiation Incidence Worksheet, with indicators of living conditions from the 2010 Census. All the collected data were exported to SPSS 14.0, a tool where the correlation (Spearman correlation coefficient) was analyzed and the variables were compared. Results: Statistically significant associations between the mortality coefficient for malignant skin cancer, with mean family income (r=-0.316, p<0.006) were found, indicating that as high the income, lower is the mortality by malignant neoplasm, occurring the same with the proportion of avoidable deaths in children younger than 4 years (r=-0.292, p<0.01) and the proportion of avoidable deaths between 5 and 74 years (r=-0.372, p<0.001). The proportion of the population earning less than ½ minimum wage (r=0.232, p<0.05) indicates that as high the population proportion with income lower than ½ minimum wage, higher will be the mortality by malignant neoplasm, similar to the proportion of the population earning less than » of the minimum wage (r=0.229, p<0.05). Conclusion: Although is a public health issue closely related to income, skin cancer needs initiatives targeted to primary and secondary prevention of the disease.

Introducción: Recientemente, ha habido un aumento en la incidencia de cáncer de piel. La radiación solar, historia familiar, inmunosupresión, piel clara y la edad constituyen los factores de riesgo para esta enfermedad. Objetivo: Correlacionar la mortalidad por cáncer de piel con varias variables socioeconómicas. Método: Se realizo un estudio ecológico usando la base de datos de la incidencia de la radiación solar del proyecto calentador solar de bajo costo (ASBC), adicionando los indicadores del censo de 2010 relativos a las condiciones de vida. Todos los datos recolectados fueron exportados a SPSS 14.0, herramienta que analizó la correlación (coeficiente de correlación de Spearman) y comparar todas las variables de la base de datos. Resultados: Fueran encontró asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre el coeficiente de mortalidad debido al cáncer maligno de la piel y el ingreso familiar promedio (r=-0,316, p<0,006), lo mismo ocurre con la proporción de muertes prevenibles en niños menores de 4 años de edad (r=-0,292, p<0,01) y la proporción de muertes prevenibles entre 5 y 74 años (r=-0,372, p<0,001). La proporción de la población que gana menos de 1/2 salario mínimo (r=0,232, p<0,05) indica que cuanto mayor es la proporción de la población con ingresos por debajo de 1/2 salario mínimo, mayor es la mortalidad por neoplasia maligna, similar a proporción de la población que gana menos de 1/4 del salario mínimo (r=0,229, p<0,05). Conclusión: A pesar de ser un problema de salud pública y estrechamente relacionado con los ingresos, el cáncer de piel todavía carece de acciones encaminadas a la prevención primaria y secundaria de la enfermedad.

Protección solar en el trabajo asociado a características laborales en trabajadores de Latinoamérica: estudio base / Sun protection at work associated with the job characteristics of Latin America workers: base study

RESUMEN Los efectos nocivos de la radiación solar han sido reportados, pero casi no se ha estudiado la población laboral de Latinoamérica. Este es un estudio transversal analítico realizado en ocho países. Las preguntas sobre protección solar se tomaron de trabajos previos; además, se preguntó por las características laborales; ambos datos se cruzaron para obtener datos estadísticos de asociación. De los 3.222 trabajadores encuestados, el 71% (2270) tenía piel mestiza. Hubo asociación del enrojecimiento de la piel según la cantidad de horas de exposición solar directa (p<0,001) e indirecta (p<0,001). El 47% (995) usaban protector/bloqueador solar, el 54% (1150) usaban ropa adecuada y el 50% (1056) usaban alguna gorra o sombrero; siendo estadísticamente diferente el medio de adquisición de dichos equipos. El 21% (446) no usaba ninguno de los equipos de protección personal ante los efectos del sol. Concluimos que es alarmante el bajo porcentaje de trabajadores que reciben adecuada protección contra los efectos de la radiación solar. Esto podría generar problemas a corto, mediano y largo plazo entre los empleados, lo que podría aumentar la morbi-mortalidad y el riesgo de cáncer de piel.

ABSTRACT The harmful effects of solar radiation have been reported, but the work population in Latin America has hardly been studied. The objective is describe the type of sun protection they use and find associations according to their characteristics in Latin American workers. The methodology isCross-sectional analytical study carried out in 8 countries, the questions of sun protection were taken from previous work, in addition, asked about the labor characteristics; Both were crossed to obtain association statistics. Our results: Of the 3.222 workers surveyed, 71% (2270) had mestizo skin. There was association of skin redness according to the number of hours of direct (p <0.001) and indirect sun exposure (p <0.001). 47% (995) wore the sunscreen / protector, 54% (1150) wore appropriate clothing and 50% (1056) wore a cap or hat; statistically different according to the means of acquisition of such equipment (p value <0.001 for all three cases). 21% (446) did not wear any personal protective equipment to the effects of the sun. It is alarming that the low percentage of workers who receive adequate protection against the effects of solar radiation can cause problems in the short, medium and long term among employees. This could increase morbidity and mortality and the risk of skin cancer. It is important to do more research in this regard, as this issue is of utmost importance because of the changes that have occurred in radiation levels, which could generate a public health problem in this work group.

Non-use of sunscreen among adults and the elderly in southern Brazil

Abstract Background One of the main prevention methods against skin cancer is the use of sunscreen; however, incidence of this disease has not declined despite prevention campaigns. Objective Investigate the prevalence of non-use of sunscreen and its associated factors. Method A population-based cross-sectional study with individuals aged 18 years or over living in the urban area. Conducted between April and July of 2016. Participants were interviewed about socioeconomic, demographic, and behavioral questions. Non-use of sunscreen was considered as the outcome. For multivariate analysis, Poisson regression with robust adjustment for variance was used. Results Among the 1300 participants, prevalence of non-use of sunscreen was 38.2% (95% CI: 34.6-41.8). The variables independently associated with the outcome were male sex, older age, brown or black skin color, lower income, fewer years of education, no physical activity in leisure time, no medical consultations in the last year, and self-perception of health as regular or poor. Study limitations The prevalence may be underestimated by reports of more use of sunscreen than actually used, which could increase the figure in the outcome. Conclusion It was estimated that about four out of ten adults and elderly do not use sunscreen in this sample. Prevention strategies are needed to advance health policy and ensure that sun protection options are easily accessible.

Development and validation of an instrument to assess the knowledge of general practitioners and pediatricians about photoprotection and solar radiation

Abstract Background The knowledge of general practitioners about photoprotection is unknown. Objectives To develop and validate an instrument to evaluate the knowledge of general practitioners and pediatricians about photoprotection, gauging the knowledge of these professionals. Methods The study followed the steps: (1) Literature identification and item elaboration related to the theme; (2) Content validation; (3) Apparent validation; (4) Construct validation: internal consistency analysis and discriminatory analysis; (5) Reliability analysis. In Step 4, the instrument was applied to 217 general practitioners and pediatricians who worked in the host city of the study; the scores were compared with dermatologists scores. Results The final instrument had 41 items and showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.780), satisfactory reproducibility and good test-retest reliability (good-to-excellent kappa statistic in more than 60% of items). The discriminatory analysis registered a mean score of 54.1 points for dermatologists and 31.1 points for generalists and pediatricians, from a total of 82 possible points, representing a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Generalists and pediatricians demonstrated an understanding of the relationship between excessive sun exposure and skin cancer, but they revealed lack of technical information necessary for their professional practice. Study limitations The instrument evaluates only knowledge, without evaluating the conduct of the participants. Conclusion The results show that the instrument has good internal consistency and good reproducibility. It could be useful in the identification of general practitioners and pediatricians knowledge gaps on the subject, for the subsequent development of training and educational strategies.

Assessment of Global Solar Radiation at Selected Points in Nigeria Using Artificial Neural Network Model (ANNM)

In this study, spatial distribution, temporal variations, annual distribution, estimation and prediction of solar radiation in Nigeria was carried out using ANNs. Levenberg-Marquardt backpropagation algorithms was used for the training of the network using solar radiation data along the years (1979-2014). The data records were divided into three portions (training, testing and validation). The network processed the available data by dividing it into three portions randomly: 70% for the training, 15% for validation and the remaining 15% for testing. Input parameters were chosen as latitude, longitude, day of the year, year while observed solar radiation was chosen as targeted data (from a processed file). The output parameter was the estimated solar radiation. The network designs were tested with root mean square error and then the most successful network (taken to be best network) which is network with less error was used to carry out the study. The hyperbolic tangent sigmoid transfer function was also used between the input and the hidden layers as activation function, while the linear transfer function was used from hidden layers to the output layer as the activation function. The performance of ANNs was validated by; estimating the difference between the annual measured and estimated values were determined using coefficient of determination (R2). Results revealed that the R2 result was 0.82 (82%). The result of spatial variations indicated that both wet and dry seasons have their highest concentration in North-East of Nigeria. It is pertinent to also note that the lowest concentration occurred in North-West during wet season, while the lowest occurred at the South-South and South-West of Nigeria in dry season. In addition, the lowest in dry season is about 25W/m2, while that of wet season is about 15W/m2. The agreement between the temporal and annual variation of observed and estimated solar radiation reveals that the model exhibits good performance in studying solar radiation. The model was further used to predict two years ahead of the years of study.

Knowledge and habits of sun exposure in university students: a cross-sectional study in Southern Brazil

Abstract BACKGROUND: Excessive sun exposure is the major risk factor for skin cancer. Thus, sun exposure behavior is the major focus for prevention of this disease, since it is potentially modifiable. Increasing the knowledge on sun related habits and other skin cancer risk factors is fundamental in the development of preventive programs, especially when directed to young people. OBJECTIVES: To assess the photoprotection habits and the knowledge about skin cancer in college students. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study from Oct. 16 to Feb. 17, including 371 students from the Federal University of Santa Maria, RS, Brazil, through a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: The level of knowledge about skin cancer and photoprotection was unsatisfactory in more than 10% of the students. The occurrence of sunburn was extremely high among students, and 25% reported at least one episode of second degree sunburn. Proper use of sunscreen was referred by only 34% of individuals. Students who reported having received photo education in college were associated with a more consistent use of sunscreen. STUDY LIMITATIONS: health area represented a large part of the sample; instrument validated outside Brazil. CONCLUSIONS: Young people are unaware of basic information about sun protection and exposure. Even among those with proper knowledge, the use of photoprotective measures is very low. The sun exposure has shown to be excessive in most of the students, which makes this population an important target for photo-educational measures.