Dietary inflammatory index and inflammatory markers in Brazilian adolescents

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between the inflammatory potential of the diet measured by the energy-adjusted diet inflammatory index (E-DII) and inflammatory markers in adolescents. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among 518 adolescents aged 18 and 19 years from São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil in 2016. A semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess dietary intake from which E-DII scores were calculated to determine the inflammatory potential of the diet. The associations between E-DII and inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-4, TNF-α, and IFNγ) were analyzed using multivariable linear regression. The variables included in the adjusted model were identified using the directed acyclic graph. RESULTS The diet of these adolescents was mostly pro-inflammatory; mean E-DII score was 1.71 and ranged from -2.44 to 5.58. Higher E-DII scores were positively associated with higher levels of IFNγ in the adjusted analysis (Adjusted Coef.: 1.19; 95%CI: 0.36-12.04). We observed no associations between E-DII and other inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-4, TNF-α). Study results indicate that E-DII is useful in evaluating the inflammatory potential of the diet of Brazilian adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Cross-sectionally E-DII scores were positively associated with IFNγ concentrations. Future research should examine the association between changes in E-DII scores and levels of inflammatory markers longitudinally.

Sitmate: an android mobile application for the prevention of musculoskeletal discomfort among a business process outsourcing company workforce management personnel / The Health Sciences Journal

INTRODUCTION@#Due to COVID-19 pandemic, many have shifted into working at home which led to physical inactivity. This may cause musculoskeletal discomfort, chronic disease, muscle atrophy and spinal imbalance due to improper and prolonged sitting posture. Since mobile devices are relatively available for most of the office workers, there were still a lack of evidence-based mobile applications that can counteract the inactivity through exercises, which led to the researchers to create an application called SitMate that consists of evidence-based exercises which aimed to prevent musculoskeletal discomfort among a business process outsourcing company Workforce Management Personnel (BPO-WMP).@*METHODS@#Eleven participants (18-40 years old) full-time, work-from-home BPO-WMP were randomized into Treatment Group(TG)(n=6) and Control Group (CG)(n=5). The TG received one month intervention with the use of SitMate Application containing relaxation exercises, range of motion exercises and stretching exercises, and notifications for postural correction while the CG continued their usual working schedule.@*RESULTS@#There were no significant differences between two groups on all body parts that were measured using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, and no significant differences in the intragroup pre-test and post-test scores on all body parts between TG and CG. For the intra-group post-test of the TG, there were noted improvements on the hip/buttock, right shoulder, upper back (median = 0) and right wrist (median = 1.5). There was also a noted increase in discomfort on the neck (median = 1.5) and lower back (median = 3). For the post-test of the CG, there were noted improvements on the right shoulder, right wrist (median = 0) and lower back (median = 1.5).@*CONCLUSION@#This study has shown that the SitMate application does not effectively reduce the prolonged sitting-related discomfort among the personnel after 1 month of intervention.

Temporal analysis and contextual factors associated with HIV/AIDS in Brazil from 2000 to 2019 / Análise temporal e fatores contextuais associados ao HIV/aids no Brasil entre 2000 e 2019

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Brazil and its Federation Units by gender, identify its associated contextual factors, and track changes in its epidemiological pattern from 2000 to 2019. METHODS: This is an ecological study with epidemiological data from DATASUS and population data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Time-series analyses of incidence rates by gender and trends were performed by joinpoint regressions, obtaining the average annual percent change (AAPC). Then, all genders were analyzed regarding the association between AAPC and the following contextual indicators: Municipal Human Development Index (HDI-M), Gini Index, Social Vulnerability Index, illiteracy rates, proportion of late diagnosis, and proportion of test distribution. RESULTS: Incidence rates in men showed a linear decreasing trend (AAPC = −0.6; 95%CI −1.1 to 0.0). Rates in women increased from 2000 to 2009 and decreased from 2010 to 2019, tending upward throughout the period (AAPC = 1.4; 95%CI 0.8 to 1.9). Analyses by gender ratio showed a downward trend (AAPC = −1.8; 95%CI −2.3 to −1.3), indicating a reduction in the rates in men when compared to women. Indicators and the AAPC showed an inverse association for all genders, in which the HDI-M was the variable with the most pronounced association, showing that higher human development indices are associated with lower variations in HIV/AIDS rates. CONCLUSION: Case distribution differ across genders, with an upward incidence trend in women and a possible association with gender-related vulnerabilities. It is important to think about public policies that consider these dimensions.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil da epidemia de HIV/aids no Brasil e nas unidades da federação de acordo com o sexo, identificar os fatores contextuais associados e acompanhar mudanças no padrão epidemiológico entre 2000 e 2019. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico utilizando dados epidemiológicos do Datasus, e populacionais do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Inicialmente foram realizadas análises de séries temporais das taxas de incidência por sexo e de tendências por regressões joinpoint, com obtenção da média da variação percentual das taxas (average annual percent change - AAPC). Posteriormente procedeu-se a uma análise, para ambos os sexos, da associação da AAPC com os indicadores contextuais Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal (IDH-M), Índice de Gini, Índice de Vulnerabilidade Social, taxa de analfabetismo, proporção de diagnóstico tardio e proporção de distribuição de testes. RESULTADOS: Observa-se tendência linear de redução nas taxas de incidência para o sexo masculino (AAPC = −0,6; IC95% −1,1 a 0,0). Para o sexo feminino, houve aumento nas taxas entre 2000 e 2009 e declínio entre 2010 e 2019, com uma tendência de incremento no período completo (AAPC = 1,4; IC95% 0,8 a 1,9). As análises por razão entre os sexos indicaram tendência de declínio (AAPC = −1,8; IC95% −2,3 a −1,3), apontando redução nas taxas para o sexo masculino em relação ao sexo feminino. Verificou-se associação inversa dos indicadores com a AAPC para ambos os sexos, sendo IDH-M a variável com associação mais pronunciada, evidenciando que maiores índices de desenvolvimento humano estão associados a menores variações nas taxas de HIV/aids. CONCLUSÃO: Os casos se distribuem de formas distintas entre os sexos, com tendência de incremento na incidência em mulheres e possível associação com vulnerabilidades relacionadas ao gênero, sendo importante pensar em políticas públicas que considerem essas dimensões.

Nutritional profile of indigenous children under five years of age in the Upper Solimões River, Amazonas, Brazil (2013) / Perfil nutricional de crianças indígenas menores de cinco anos de idade no Alto Rio Solimões, Amazonas, Brasil (2013)

Abstract Objectives: to characterize the nutritional status of indigenous children underfive years of age living in rural communities in the Upper Solimões River region, inhabited by seven ethnic groups, based on data of december 2013. Methods: weight and height data extracted from SISVAN-I (Indigenous Food and Nutritional Surveillance System) forms filled in 2013 for 7,520 children (86.0% of the estimated children in this age group). The indices height-for-age (H/A), weight-for-age (W/A), weight-for-height(W/H), and body mass index-for-age (BMI/A) were calculated. Growth reference curves proposed by the World Health Organization were used to calculate z-scores. Results: the height-for-age (H/A) index presented the lowest mean z-score values, reaching -1.95 among children between 36 and 60 months. Mean z-score values for the weight-for-age (W/A) index also remained below zero. Mean z-score values for the indices weight-for-height (W/H) and body mass index-for-age (BMI/A) remained slightly above zero, reaching a maximum value of 0.5. Of all children, 45.7% presented low H/A, 9.6% presented low W/A, 4.5% presented low W/H, and 10.7% presented overweight based on BMI/A. Conclusion: our analysis show that in 2013 poor nutritional status persisted as an important health issue among these rural indigenous children.

Resumo Objetivos: caracterizar o estado nutricional de crianças indígenas menores de cinco anos, de comunidades rurais na região do Alto Solimões, habitada por sete etnias, com base em dados de dezembro de 2013. Métodos: foram extraídos dos formulários do SISVAN Indígena dados de peso e estatura, coletados em 2013, de 7.520 crianças (86,0% das crianças estimadas nesta faixa etária). Foram calculados os índices estatura-para-idade (E/I), peso-para-idade (P/I), peso-para-estatura (P/E) e índice de massa corporal para idade (IMC/I). Curvas de referência para crescimento propostas pela Organização Mundial da Saúde foram utilizadas para calcular escores z. Resultados: o índice estatura-para-idade (E/I) apresentou os menores valores médios de escore z, chegando a -1,95 nas crianças entre 36 e 60 meses. Os valores médios do escore z do índice peso-para-idade (P/I) também permaneceram abaixo de zero. Os valores médios do escore z para os índices P/E e índice de massa corporal para idade (IMC/I) mantiveram-se ligeiramente acima de zero, atingindo valor máximo de 0,5. Do total de crianças, 45,7% apresentaram baixa E/I, 9,6%, baixo P/I, 4,5% baixo P/E e 10,7% de excesso de peso de acordo com o IMC/I. Conclusão: em 2013 a desnutrição persistia como um importante agravo à saúde nessas crianças.

Roles for α1-adrenoceptors during contractions by electrical field stimulation in mouse vas deferens

We have investigated the relative roles of α1-adrenoceptors and purinoceptors in contractions to low and high frequency stimulation of the mouse vas deferens, in terms of the time course of responses. In separate experiments, isometric contractile responses were obtained to 10 pulses at 1 Hz and 40 pulses at 10 Hz. Responses to 1 Hz stimulation consisted of a series of discrete peaks. The α1A -adrenoceptor antagonist RS100329 (10 –9 M–10 –7 M) significantly reduced the response to the first pulse, the α1D-adrenoceptor antagonist BMY7378 (10 –7 M–10–6 M) significantly reduced the response to the first two pulses, and the non-selective α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin (10–8 M) reduced the response to the first 4 pulses at 1 Hz. Responses to 10 Hz stimulation consisted of an early peak response and a maintained plateau response. RS100329 significantly reduced the peak response but did not significantly affect the plateau response. Prazosin, significantly reduced both the peak and plateau responses. The α1A-adrenoceptor antagonist RS17053 in high concentrations reduced mainly the plateau response leaving a clear early peak response. The plateau response of contraction was almost abolished by the purinoceptor antagonist suramin. These results suggest that there is a relatively minor early α1D -adrenoceptor and a larger early α1A -adrenoceptor component to stimulationevoked contractions of mouse vas deferens, but the major α1 -adrenoceptor component is revealed by prazosin to be α1B -adrenoceptor mediated. α1B -Adrenoceptor activation probably facilitates contractions mediated by other α1-adrenoceptors and by purinoceptors. These results suggest that combined non-selective α1-adrenoceptor blockade, particularly α1B -adrenoceptor blockade, in addition to P2X1-purinoceptor blockade is useful in reducing male fertility.

Comparison of two circuit class therapy programs on walking capacity, gait velocity and stair ambulation among patients with chronic stroke: a parallel pretest-posttest pilot study

OBJECTIVE@#Circuit class therapy is a cost-efficient model of treatment that can be beneficial in a setting with limited resources. Current literature has conflicting results regarding which is a more effective approach to stroke rehabilitation: focusing on functional training or on improving impairments. This pilot study provides preliminary information comparing the effects of a task-oriented versus an impairment-focused circuit class therapy on walking ability among patients with chronic stroke.@*METHOD@#Eighteen participants with a single episode of chronic stroke and limited mobility were randomized into task-oriented circuit class (task group) (n=9) and impairment-focused circuit class (impairment group) (n=9). Both groups underwent intervention thrice a week for four weeks. Blind examination was done using the Ten Meter Walk Test for comfortable gait velocity (CGV) and fast gait velocit(FGV), Time Up and Down Stairs (TUDS), and Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT).@*RESULTS@#All participants completed the treatment sessions without adverse effects. After four weeks of treatment, the task group showed statistically significant within-group change in CGV (0.12±0.08, p=0.003) and FGV (0.25±0.22, p=0.007). The impairment group only showed statistically significant improvement in 6MWT (25.80±31.2, p=0.038). There were no statistically significant changes between the groups in all outcome measures.@*CONCLUSIONS@#The preliminary data from this pilot study suggest either program can improve walking-related outcomes and may not be different, although this needs to be confirmed using an appropriately-powered trial.

Remote spatial analysis lacking ethnographic grounding mischaracterizes sustainability of Indigenous burning regime / Análise espacial remota sem embasamento etnográfico descaracteriza a sustentabilidade do regime de queimada indígena

Abstract: Scientific research that purports to evaluate Indigenous fire regimes in the absence of ethnographically contextualized ecological data runs the risk of exacerbating the fire blame game and providing evidence to support distorted narratives advanced by anti-Indigenous advocates. Spatial analysis of fire scars in Indigenous territories can be an effective tool for characterizing cultural fire regimes in terms of distribution and frequency, especially when qualified by linkages to different local ecosystems. A recently published article drew on fire scar mapping from satellite imagery to assess anthropogenic fire distribution and frequency in the Pimentel Barbosa Indigenous Land, Central Brazil. The authors use their findings to characterize A'uwẽ (Xavante) use of fire as unmanaged and a model of unsustainable use of cerrado resources. In this article, we discuss Aguiar & Martins's recent paper in light of our long-term research on A'uwẽ hunting with fire in the Pimentel Barbosa Indigenous Land, arguing that A'uwẽ hunters do burn according to established cultural protocols, manage their use of fire for conservationist purposes, and do not cause environmental degradation by burning.

Resumo: A pesquisa científica que pretende avaliar regimes indígenas de queimadas na ausência de dados ecológicos contextualizados etnograficamente corre o risco de exacerbar o jogo de culpabilização do fogo, fornecendo evidências para apoiar narrativas distorcidas apresentadas por militantes anti-indígenas. A análise espacial de cicatrizes de fogo em territórios indígenas pode ser uma ferramenta eficaz para caracterizar regimes culturais de fogo em termos de distribuição e frequência, especialmente quando qualificada por ligações a diferentes ecossistemas locais. Um artigo publicado recentemente se baseou no mapeamento de cicatrizes de fogo a partir de imagens de satélite para avaliar a distribuição e frequência antropogênica de fogo na Terra Indígena Pimentel Barbosa, Brasil Central. Os autores usam seus resultados para caracterizar o uso do fogo pelos A'uwẽ (Xavante) como não manejado e um modelo insustentável de uso de recursos do cerrado. Neste artigo, discutimos o artigo recente de Aguiar & Martins à luz de nossa pesquisa de longa duração sobre a caçada com fogo praticada pelos A'uwẽ na Terra Indígena Pimentel Barbosa, argumentando que os caçadores A'uwẽ queimam de acordo com protocolos culturais estabelecidos, manejam o fogo de maneira conservacionista e não causam degradação ambiental pela queimada.

Estado nutricional e fatores associados ao déficit estatural em crianças menores de cinco anos de comunidades remanescentes de quilombos do Nordeste brasileiro / Nutritional status and factors associated with stunting in children under five years of age in maroon communities in Northeast Brazil / Estado nutricional y factores asociados al déficit de estatura en niños menores de cinco años originarios de comunidades reminiscentes de quilombos en el Nordeste Brasileño

Resumo: Os quilombolas constituem parte das minorias étnico-raciais do país que apresentam iniquidades em saúde, reflexo de um processo histórico de grandes desvantagens socioeconômicas. O objetivo foi avaliar o estado nutricional e fatores associados ao déficit estatural em crianças quilombolas menores de cinco anos residentes em comunidades quilombolas tituladas na Região Nordeste do Brasil. Utilizaram-se dados secundários provenientes da Pesquisa de Avaliação da Situação de Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional em Comunidades Quilombolas Tituladas (2011). Os desfechos de interesse foram o déficit estatural (estatura-para-idade < -2z), excesso de peso (peso-para-estatura > 2z) e o déficit ponderal (peso-para-idade < -2z). Foi empregado o teste qui-quadrado para avaliar a significância das diferenças entre as prevalências. A análise multivariada considerou um modelo conceitual hierárquico sobre o déficit estatural. As prevalências de excesso de peso e déficit ponderal foram 2,8% e 6,1%, respectivamente. O déficit estatural foi diagnosticado em 14,1% da amostra. O modelo hierárquico de déficit estatural evidenciou maiores prevalências do agravo entre crianças que não tinham acesso à atenção básica (RP = 1,63; IC95%: 1,11; 2,41), à água tratada (RP = 2,09; IC95%: 1,42; 3,08) e que nasceram com baixo peso (RP = 2,19; IC95%: 1,33; 3,61). A elevada prevalência de déficit estatural mostra que a população quilombola no Nordeste apresenta condições de saúde desfavoráveis, sendo reflexo da falta de acesso à atenção básica e das precárias condições de saneamento.

Abstract: Quilombolas, or members of maroon communities in Brazil, are part of the country's ethnic/racial minorities exposed to health inequities, reflecting a historical process of harsh socioeconomic disadvantages. The study aimed to assess nutritional status and factors associated with stunting in quilombola children under five years of age living in land-deeded quilombola communities in Northeast Brazil. The study used secondary data from the Survey on Food and Nutritional Security in Land-Deeded Quilombola Communities (2011). The target outcomes were stunting (height-for-age < -2z), excess weight (weight-for-height > 2z), and underweight (weight-for-age < -2z). Chi-square test was used to assess the significance of differences between prevalence rates. Multivariate analysis used a hierarchical conceptual model on stunting. Prevalence rates for excess weight and underweight were 2.8% and 6,1%, respectively. Stunting was diagnosed in 14.1% of the sample. The hierarchical model for stunting evidenced higher prevalence rates among children without access to primary healthcare (PR = 1.63; 95%CI: 1.11; 2.41) and safe water (PR = 2.09; 95%CI: 1.42; 3.08) and those with a history of low birthweight (PR = 2.19; 95%CI: 1.33; 3.61). The high prevalence of stunting showed that the quilombola' population in the Northeast experiences unfavorable health condition, reflecting lack of access to primary healthcare and precarious sanitation.

Resumen: Los quilombolas constituyen parte de las minorías étnico-raciales del país que presentan inequidades en salud, reflejo de un proceso histórico que implicó grandes desigualdades socioeconómicas. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar el estado nutricional y los factores asociados con el déficit de estatura en niños quilombolas, menores de 5 años, residentes en comunidades quilombolas, ubicadas en la Región Nordeste del Brasil. Se utilizaron datos secundarios provenientes de la Pesquisa de Avaliação da Situação de Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional em Comunidades Quilombolas Tituladas (2011). Los resultados de interés fueron: déficit de estatura (estatura-para-edad < -2z), exceso de peso (peso-para-estatura > 2z) y insuficiencia ponderal (peso-para-edad < -2z). Se empleó la prueba chi-cuadrado para evaluar la significancia de las diferencias entre las prevalencias. El análisis multivariado consideró un modelo conceptual jerárquico sobre la insuficiencia de estatura. Las prevalencias de exceso de peso y déficit ponderal fueron 2,8%, 6,1%, respectivamente. El déficit de estatura fue diagnosticado en un 14,1% de la muestra. El modelo jerárquico de déficit de estatura evidenció mayores prevalencias de enfermedades entre niños que no tenían acceso a la atención básica (RP = 1,63; IC95%: 1,11; 2,41), al agua tratada (RP = 2,09; IC95%: 1,42; 3,08) y que nacieron con bajo peso (RP = 2,19; IC95%: 1,33; 3,61). La elevada prevalencia de déficit de estatura muestra que la población quilombola en el Nordeste presenta condiciones de salud desfavorables, siendo reflejo de la falta de acceso a la atención básica en salud y de las precarias condiciones de saneamiento.

Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in an adult population from eight communities in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic / Prevalencia de lesiones de mucosa oral en una población adulta de ocho comunidades en Santo Domingo, República Dominicana

ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of Oral Mucosal Lesions (OMLs) in an adult population from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. 751 subjects from eight communities from Santo Domingo accepted the invitation to participate in an oral screening from October 2016 to January 2017. 248 subjects were evaluated and clinically examined, age range 18-86 years. A validated instrument was designed to record demographic factors, age group, gender, anatomical location, presence or absence of OMLs, risk factors such as tobacco consumption and its frequency, and different forms of tobacco and alcohol use. A systematic oral clinical examination was conducted by a specialist. The presence or absence, and anatomic location of OMLs were recorded. The sample consisted of 44.4% males and 55.6 % females. 228 subjects had 1 or more lesions (91.9%), the median was 3 lesions per patient. In relation to risk factors, tobacco use in general was reported by 26.2 % of the subjects, with cigarette smoking reported by 75.4%, followed by other forms as "hookah" 9.2 %, marihuana 9.2%, cigars ("puros")4.6% and pipe smoking 1.5%. Among the oral lesions detected by screening, the nonpathological group was prevalent, and included physiologic melanin pigmentation as the most frequent (25.0%) followed by palatal/mandibular tori (20.2%), Fordyce granules (7.9%), and Exostosis (5.6%). Potentially malignant disorders (Oral Leukoplakia, Oral Lichen Planus and Actinic Cheilitis) corresponded to 2.2%, 0.3 %, and 0.3%, respectively. No malignancy was observed clinically. This study contributes to determining the prevalence of OMLs in Dominican Republic and to identifying risk factors. This is the first study reporting the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among the Dominican adult population. This information is vital for establishing a public health program targeting the high-risk group to improve the oral health status in this population.

RESUMEN El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la prevalencia de lesiones de la mucosa oral (LMO) en una población adulta proveniente de Santo Domingo, República Dominicana. 751 individuos procedentes de ocho comunidades de la provincia de Santo Domingo, respondieron a la invitación para participar en el examen bucal, desde Octubre 2016 a Enero 2017. 248 sujetos con un rango de edad de 18-86 años, fueron evaluados y examinados clínicamente. Se diseñó y validó un instrumento para obtener datos de factores demográficos, grupos de edad, género, localización anatómica, presencia o ausencia de lesiones de la mucosa oral, factores de riesgo tales como: consumo de tabaco, frecuencia, diferentes formas de uso de tabaco y alcohol. Un especialista en el área, realizó un examen clínico bucal sistematizado en el cual se evaluó y registró la presencia o ausencia de lesiones y su localización anatómica. De acuerdo a la distribución por género, 44.4% correspondió a masculino y 55.6 % femenino. 228/248 sujetos presentaron 1 o más lesiones (91.9%), siendo la media de 3 lesiones por paciente. En relación a los factores de riesgo, el tabaco se reportó en 26.2%, siendo el fumar cigarrillos el 75.4%, seguido de otras formas como "hookah" 9.2%, marihuana 9.2%, cigarros ("puros") 4.6% y pipa fumada 1.5 %. En cuanto a las lesiones bucales detectadas en el examen, el grupo de condiciones no patológicas fue el más frecuente e incluía a pigmentaciones fisiológicas melánicas (25.0%), seguida de torus palatino/mandibulares (20.2 %), gránulos de Fordyce (7.9%) y exostosis (5.6%),respectivamente. Las lesiones potencialmente malignas detectadas (Leucoplasia oral, Liquen plano oral y Queilitis actínica) correspondieron al 2.2%, 0.3 % y 0.3%, respectivamente. Clínicamente, no se observó malignidad. Este estudio contribuye a determinar la prevalencia de LMO en República Dominicana e identificar factores de riesgo. Los hallazgos representan el primer estudio que muestra la prevalencia de las lesiones de mucosa oral en la población adulta dominicana. Se recomienda la creación de un programa de salud pública orientado a grupos de alto riesgo para mejorar el estatus de salud oral en esta población.

Birth weight of indigenous children in Brazil: results of the First National Survey of Indigenous People's Health and Nutrition / Peso ao nascer de crianças indígenas no Brasil: resultados do Primeiro Inquérito Nacional de Saúde e Nutrição dos Povos Indígenas / Peso al nacer de niños indígenas en Brasil: resultados de la Primera Encuesta Nacional sobre la Salud y Nutrición de los Pueblos Indígenas

Birth weight is an important predictor of perinatal, infant, and preschool-age children morbimortality. However, information about indigenous children's birth weight is still scarce. This study aimed to analyze the birth weight of indigenous children based on data from the First National Survey of Indigenous People's Health and Nutrition, Brazil (2008-2009). This is the first study to address indigenous children's birth weight based on a nationwide representative sample. Mean birth weights and the respective standard deviations were calculated according to geopolitical region, sex, type of birth, and birthplace. The chi-square test was used to analyze differences in proportions, and Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests in means, considering sample design and data normality. We found no records on birth weight in the researched documents for 26.7% of the 6,128 sampled children. The mean birth weight for the 3,994 children included in the analyses was 3,201g (standard deviation - SD ± 18.6g), regardless of sex, type of birth, and birthplace. The prevalence of low birth weight was 7.6% (n = 302) and was significantly higher among girls. Boys presented significantly higher mean birth weight than girls, regardless of the geopolitical region. Low birth weight was slightly less frequent among indigenous children when compared to Brazilian children in general. Our study indicates the need to improve prenatal care and the quality of consultation records for indigenous women as a strategy to promote safe pregnancy and childbirth.

O peso ao nascer é um importante preditor de morbimortalidade perinatal, infantil e pré-escolar. São escassas as informações sobre o peso ao nascer das crianças indígenas no Brasil. O estudo teve como objetivo analisar o peso ao nascer das crianças indígenas, com base nos dados do Primeiro Inquérito Nacional de Saúde e Nutrição dos Povos Indígenas, Brasil (2008-2009). Este é o primeiro estudo a avaliar o peso ao nascer de crianças indígenas com base em uma amostra nacional representativa. Foram calculadas as médias e desvios-padrão de acordo com macrorregião, sexo, tipo e parto e local do parto. Foram utilizados o teste de qui-quadrado para analisar as diferenças de proporções e os testes de Kruskal-Wallis e U de Mann-Whitney para diferenças nas médias, considerando o desenho amostral do estudo e a normalidade dos dados. Para 26,7% das 6.128 crianças da amostra, não foi possível localizar qualquer registro de peso ao nascer nos documentos consultados. Entre as 3.994 crianças incluídas nas análises, o peso médio ao nascer, independentemente de sexo, tipo de parto e local do parto, foi 3.201g (desvio padrão - DP ± 18,6g). A prevalência de baixo peso ao nascer foi 7,6% (n = 302), significativamente mais alta em meninas. Os meninos apresentaram peso médio ao nascer significativamente mais alto que as meninas, independentemente de região. A frequência de baixo peso ao nascer foi ligeiramente mais baixa que nas crianças brasileiras em geral. O estudo aponta para a necessidade de melhorar a assistência pré-natal e a qualidade dos registros das consultas das mulheres indígenas, como estratégia para promover a segurança na gravidez e no parto.

El peso al nacer es un predictor importante de morbimortalidad perinatal, infantil y preescolar. La información sobre el peso al nacer de niños indígenas es escasa. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el peso al nacer de los niños indígenas, basado en datos de la Primera Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición de los Pueblo Indígenas, Brasil (2008-2009). Se trata del primer estudio dirigido al peso al nacer de niños indígenas, basado en una muestra representativa nacionalmente. Las medias y las respectivas desviaciones estándar del peso al nacer se calcularon según la región geopolítica, sexo, tipo de nacimiento y localización del mismo. Se usó un test chi-cuadrado para analizar las diferencias en proporciones y las pruebas Kruskal-Wallis y de la U de Mann-Whitney para las diferencias en las medias, considerando el diseño de la muestra del estudio y normalidad de los datos. Para un 26,7% de los 6.128 niños incluidos en la muestra no fue posible localizar ningún registro de peso al nacer en los documentos investigados. De los 3.994 niños incluidos en el análisis, la media de peso al nacer, independiente del sexo, tipo de nacimiento, y lugar de nacimiento, fue 3.201g (desviación estándar - SD ± 18,6g). La prevalencia del bajo peso al nacer fue 7,6% (n = 302) y fue significativamente más alta entre niñas. Los niños presentaron significativamente una media más alta de peso al nacer que las niñas, independientemente de la región. La frecuencia del bajo peso al nacer fue ligeramente más baja que la observada en niños brasileños en general. Este estudio presenta aspectos que se necesitan mejorar en el cuidado prenatal y en la calidad de los registros de las consultas de mujeres indígenas, como una estrategia para promover un embarazo y parto seguros.

The efficacy of low dose short-term prednisone therapy for remission induction in newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis patients

Abstract Background: The ACR/EULAR recommendations endorse the use of glucocorticoids (GCs) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients' flares and as a bridge to a DMARD. However, the recommendation of low dose short-term monotherapy with (GCs) remains open to the discretion of the clinician. The aim of this study was to assess whether a short-term use of low dose prednisone monotherapy was effective in inducing remission in newly diagnosed RA patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients newly diagnosed with RA at a Community Health Center in North Dakota was performed based on the ACR/EULAR RA classification criteria. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from patients' medical charts. Patients treated with (≤ 10 mg/day) of prednisone up to 6 months were included. Response to prednisone was analyzed according to pre- and post-treatment DAS28-ESR score and EULAR response criteria. Results: Data on 201 patients were analyzed. The mean prednisone dose was 8 mg/day (range: 5-10; SD = 1.2) and the mean treatment duration was 42.2 days (12-177; 16.9). Disease severity significantly improved from baseline to follow-up for: tender joint count (8.6 ± 4.8 vs. 1.5 ± 3.3; P < 0.001), swollen joint count (6.2 ± 5.0 vs. 1.4 ± 3.0; P < 0.001), and visual analog pain score (4.8 ± 2.6 vs. 2.1 ± 2.5; P < 0.001). DAS28-ESR disease severity significantly improved from baseline to follow-up: (5.1 ± 1.2 vs. 2.7 ± 1.3; P < 0.001). Per EULAR response criteria, 69.7% of patients showed good response to treatment and 20.4% showed moderate response. 54.2% of patients reached remission. Conclusion: Short-term use of low dose prednisone monotherapy induced disease remission and improved clinical severity of RA in the majority of newly diagnosed patients.

The Timed Up-&-Go Test: Preliminary Age- and Sex-related Reference Values for Older Filipino Adults

Objective@#The Timed Up-&-Go Test (TUGT) is a clinically useful measure that has been widely used in practice to assess functional mobility in older people. Interpretation of TUGT scores relies on appropriate reference values. This study aimed to describe preliminary age- and sex-related reference values for the TUGT for Filipinos aged 60–79 years. @*Methods@#This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. We included Filipino adults aged 60–79 years, with no significant disability, and resided in metropolitan areas in the National Capital Region and rural communities in southern Luzon. All participants completed the TUGT. Data were analyzed descriptively and reported as means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals.@* Results@#A total of 156 community-dwelling older adults participated in the study with mean age (SD) of 68 (5) years. The majority were women (103/156, 66%). Mean (SD) TUGT score for all participants was 11.0 (2.4) seconds. Overall, men completed the test faster compared to women, and individuals in the 60–69 years age group had shorter completion times than those in the 70–79 years age group.@*Conclusion@#In the absence of definitive reference values for older Filipino adults, this study provides preliminary guidance for interpreting TUGT performance for the purposes of screening and monitoring functional mobility impairments in this population.

Investigating competencies needed by European-trained doctors in rural South African hospitals

Background: Many European-trained doctors (ETDs) recruited to work in rural district hospitals in South Africa have insufficient generalist competencies for the range of practice required. Africa Health Placements recruits ETDs to work in rural hospitals in Africa. Many of these doctors feel inadequately prepared. The Stellenbosch University Ukwanda Centre for Rural Health is launching a Postgraduate Diploma in Rural Medicine to help prepare doctors for such work. Aim: To determine the competencies gap for ETDs working in rural district hospitals in South Africa to inform the curriculum of the PG Dip (Rural Medicine). Setting: Rural district hospitals in South Africa. Methods: Nine hospitals in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga were purposefully selected by Africa Health Placements as receiving ETDs. An online survey was developed asking about the most important competencies and weaknesses for ETDs when working rurally. The clinical manager and any ETDs currently working in each hospital were invited to complete the survey. Results: Surveys were completed by 19 ETDs and five clinical managers. The top clinical competencies in relation to 10 specific domains were identified. The results also indicate broader competencies required, specific skills gaps, the strengths that ETDs bring to South Africa and how ETDs prepare themselves for working in this context. Conclusion: This study identifies the important competency gaps among ETDs and provides useful direction for the diploma and other future training initiatives. The diploma faculty must reflect on these findings and ensure the curriculum is aligned with these gaps

Nontraumatic Splenic Rupture due to Infectious Mononucleosis

A 19-year-old otherwise healthy male presented to the Emergency Department with left upper quadrant abdominal pain having felt a “pop” in his abdomen which was followed by nausea and lightheadedness. There was no evidence of trauma but 3 weeks earlier he began with symptoms of a sore throat and nasal congestion without cough. On subsequent investigation, given the patient's acute abdominal pain, abnormal vitals and a non-diagnostic computed tomography scan, an emergent exploratory laparotomy was performed. There was 600 mL of blood evacuated from the abdomen. A 643-gram inflamed and ruptured spleen was identified and removed, and follow-up lab work was positive for heterophile antibody. This report describes spontaneous splenic rupture caused by infectious mononucleosis and compares characteristics of traumatic versus non-traumatic cases.

Technique of external ventricular drainage with intraventricular administration of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator for patients with secondary intraventricular hemorrhage - Case series in a single institution

INTRODUCTION@#Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) as an extension of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage is an independent predictor of mortality. The Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of IVH phase 3 (CLEAR III) trial is a randomized, double-blinded, placebocontrolled, multiregional trial recently conducted to determine whether external ventricular drainage (EVD) plus intraventricular recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA, alteplase) improved outcome, in comparison to EVD plus saline. This study is an application of the rationale and principles of management in CLEAR III trial and related literature.@*METHODS@#There are five patients described in this case series. Report followed the PROCESS guidelines.@*RESULTS@#30-day mortality in this series is 2 out of 5 while actual allcause mortality is 4 out of 5. Modified Graeb scores and IVH scores of all subjects have decreased after the intervention. However, good functional status defined as modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0-3 has not been achieved with the intervention. Efficacy of completely resolving IVH and hydrocephalus has been achieved in 2 out of 5 which translated to a benefit of survival to one of the two. Shunt dependence has been avoided by the subjects except for the one with the caudate intracerebral hemorrhage. Complications related to the intervention have been noted and discussed@*CONCLUSION@#In this single-institution study, patients for which rtPA was used for intraventricular fibrinolysis of IVH clot in addition to EVD as surgical treatment for hydrocephalus resulted to a 30-day survival of 3 out of 5 in this series, while actual survival is 1 out of 5. The intervention was efficacious in decreasing the Modified Graeb scores and IVH scores of all study subjects at end of treatment. Functional status of mRS 5 is the highest score achieved among survivors.

Rab25 Deficiency Perturbs Epidermal Differentiation and Skin Barrier Function in Mice

Rab25, a member of the Rab11 small GTPase family, is central to achieving cellular polarity in epithelial tissues. Rab25 is highly expressed in epithelial cells of various tissues including breast, vagina, cervix, the gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Rab25 plays key roles in tumorigenesis, mainly by regulating epithelial differentiation and proliferation. However, its role in skin physiology is relatively unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that Rab25 knock-out (KO) mice show a skin barrier dysfunction with high trans-epidermal water loss and low cutaneous hydration. To examine this observation, we investigated the histology and epidermal differentiation markers of the skin in Rab25 KO mice. Rab25 KO increased cell proliferation at the basal layer of epidermis, whereas the supra-basal layer remained unaffected. Ceramide, which is a critical lipid component for skin barrier function, was not altered by Rab25 KO in its distribution or amount, as determined by immunohistochemistry. Notably, levels of epidermal differentiation markers, including loricrin, involucrin, and keratins (5, 14, 1, and 10) increased prominently in Rab25 KO mice. In line with this, depletion of Rab25 with single hairpin RNA increased the expression of differentiation markers in a human keratinocyte cell line, HaCaT. Transcriptomic analysis of the skin revealed increased expression of genes associated with skin development, epidermal development, and keratinocyte differentiation in Rab25 KO mice. Collectively, these results suggested that Rab25 is involved in the regulation of epidermal differentiation and proliferation.

Lack of association between dietary inflammatory index and low impact fractures in the Brazilian population: the Brazilian Osteoporosis Study (BRAZOS)

Abstract Introduction: Adequate nutrition, including intake of dietary calcium and vitamin D, is important to maintain bone health. Evidence suggests that a deficiency in micronutrients may contribute to bone loss during aging and exert generalized effects on chronic inflammation. Recently, the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was developed to assess the inflammatory potential of individual diets. Our aim was to evaluate the DII in a representative sample and verify its association with low-impact fractures. Methods: Individuals from The Brazilian Osteoporosis Study (BRAZOS) database had their DII calculated. BRAZOS is an important cross-sectional epidemiological study carried out with a representative sample of men and women ≥40 years old. The research was conducted through in-home interviews administered by a trained team. Nutrition Database System for Research (NDSR) software was used to analyze data on the intake of nutrients, which were employed to calculate the DII using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS®) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS®) to assess its association with low-impact fractures. Results: A total of 2269 subjects had their DII score calculated using information from 24-h recall data. Males had lower DII than females (DII = 1.12 ± 1.04 vs DII = 1.24 ± 0.99, p = 0.012). Women taking statins had lower DII (DII = 0.65 ±1.14 vs DII + 1.26 ± 0.98, p = 0.002), indicating a greater potential for diet-related anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that women might have a pro-inflammatory diet pattern compared to men. However, we did not find any association between DII scores and low-impact fractures.

Subgingival microbiological profile of periodontitis patients in Dominican Republic

The aim of this study was to evaluate the deproteinization of primary enamel by analyzing etching pattern types, with and without the application of 5% NaOCl before acid etching with 37% H3PO4. Fifteen extracted human primary molars were randomly selected for the present in vitro study; 1mm x 1mm blocks were prepared and divided into two groups (n = 21). These groups were treated as follows: Group AAcid Etching with 37% H3PO4 gel for 15 s; Group B5% NaOCl for 60 s + Acid Etching with 37% H3PO4for 15 s. The specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopy analysis. The images were evaluated for quality types I and II etching of the enamel surface using ImageJ software. Datasets were checked for normality by KolgomorvSmirnov test and the nonparametric unpaired MannWhitney test was applied. The mean surface area of type I and II etching pattern values was 1922.314 µm2for Group A and 3840.473 µm2Group B. We conclude that deproteinization with 5% NaOCl prior to acid etching can be used to increase the area of adhesion and the quality of the etching pattern (AU)

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la desproteinización del esmalte primario a través de los tipos de patrones de grabado, con y sin NaOCl 5% utilizado antes del grabado ácido con H3PO4 37%. Quince dientes primarios humanos extraídos se seleccionaron al azar para el presente estudio in vitro, se prepararon bloques de 1mm x 1 mm y se dividieron en dos grupos (n = 21). Estos grupos se trataron de la siguiente manera: Grupo A: Grabado ácido con H3PO4 37% en gel durante 15 segundos; Grupo B: NaOCl 5% durante 60 segundos + Grabado ácido con H3PO4 37% durante 15 segundos. Las muestras se prepararon para el análisis de microscopía electrónica de barrido. Las imágenes obtenidas se evaluaron principalmente por la calidad de los grabados tipo I y II de la superficie del esmalte primario, utilizando el software Image J. Los datos se analizaron en cuanto a su normalidad mediante la prueba de KolgomorvSmirnov, se utilizó pruebas no paramétricas: Prueba de MannWhitney no pareada. Como resultado, se encontró que el área de superficie media de los valores de patrón de grabado de tipo I y II para el Grupo A era 1922,314 µm2 y el Grupo B era 3840,473 µm2. Finalmente, llegamos a la conclusión de que se puede usar la desproteinización con NaOCl 5% antes del grabado ácido para aumentar el área de adhesión y la calidad del patrón de grabado (AU)