Firefighters' Occupational Exposure in Preparation for Wildfire Season: Addressing Biological Impact.

The characterization of wildland firefighters' occupational exposure must consider different exposures, including those at the fire station. The present study aimed to characterize the occupational exposure of 172 Northern Portuguese wildland firefighters in fire stations during the pre-wildfire season of 2021. The biological impact of estimated inhaled doses of PM10 and PM2.5 (indoor/outdoor) was accessed through a buccal micronucleus cytome (BMCyt) assay in exfoliated buccal cells of a subgroup of 80 firefighters. No significant association was found between estimated inhaled doses of PM10 and PM2.5 (mean 1.73 ± 0.43 µg kg-1 and 0.53 ± 0.21 µg kg-1, respectively) and biological endpoints. However, increased frequencies of cell death parameters were found among subjects of the Permanent Intervention Teams (full-time firefighters). The intake of nutritional supplements was associated with a significant decrease in micronucleus frequencies (i.e., DNA damage or chromosome breakage). In addition, our findings showed a significantly increased frequency of cell death endpoints (i.e., nuclear fragmentation) with coffee consumption, while daily consumption of vegetables significantly decreased it (i.e., nuclear shrinkage). Our results provide data on the occupational exposure of wildland firefighters while working in fire stations during the pre-wildfire season, providing the essential baseline for further studies throughout the wildfire season.

Baseline data and associations between urinary biomarkers of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, blood pressure, hemogram, and lifestyle among wildland firefighters.

Introduction: Available literature has found an association between firefighting and pathologic pathways leading to cardiorespiratory diseases, which have been linked with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are highlighted as priority pollutants by the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative in occupational and non-occupational contexts. Methods: This cross-sectional study is the first to simultaneously characterize six creatinine-adjusted PAHs metabolites (OHPAHs) in urine, blood pressure, cardiac frequency, and hemogram parameters among wildland firefighters without occupational exposure to fire emissions (> 7 days), while exploring several variables retrieved via questionnaires. Results: Overall, baseline levels for total OHPAHs levels were 2 to 23-times superior to the general population, whereas individual metabolites remained below the general population median range (except for 1-hydroxynaphthalene+1-hydroxyacenaphtene). Exposure to gaseous pollutants and/or particulate matter during work-shift was associated with a 3.5-fold increase in total OHPAHs levels. Firefighters who smoke presented 3-times higher total concentration of OHPAHs than non-smokers (p < 0.001); non-smoker females presented 2-fold lower total OHPAHs (p = 0.049) than males. 1-hydroxypyrene was below the recommended occupational biological exposure value (2.5 µg/L), and the metabolite of carcinogenic PAH (benzo(a)pyrene) was not detected. Blood pressure was above 120/80 mmHg in 71% of subjects. Firefighters from the permanent intervention team presented significantly increased systolic pressure than those who performed other functions (p = 0.034). Tobacco consumption was significantly associated with higher basophils (p = 0.01-0.02) and hematocrit (p = 0.03). No association between OHPAHs and blood pressure was found. OHPAHs concentrations were positively correlated with monocyte, basophils, large immune cells, atypical lymphocytes, and mean corpuscular volume, which were stronger among smokers. Nevertheless, inverse associations were observed between fluorene and pyrene metabolites with neutrophils and eosinophils, respectively, in non-smokers. Hemogram was negatively affected by overworking and lower physical activity. Conclusion: This study suggests possible associations between urinary PAHs metabolites and health parameters in firefighters, that should be further assessed in larger groups.

Biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure and short-time health effects in wildland firefighters during real-life fire events.

Human biomonitoring data retrieved from real-life wildland firefighting in Europe and, also, worldwide are scarce. Thus, in this study, 176 Portuguese firefighters were biomonitored pre- and post- unsimulated wildfire combating (average:12-13 h; maximum: 55 h) to evaluate the impact on the levels of urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons hydroxylated metabolites (OHPAH; quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection) and the associated short-term health effects (symptoms, and total and differentiated white blood cells). Correlations between these variables and data retrieved from the self-reported questionnaires were also investigated. Firefighters were organized into four groups according to their exposure to wildfire emissions and their smoking habits: non-smoking non-exposed (NSNExp), non-smoking exposed (NSExp), smoking non-exposed (SNExp), and smoking and exposed (SExp). The most abundant metabolites were 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (1OHNaph + 1OHAce) (98-99 %), followed by 2-hydroxyfluorene (2OHFlu) (0.2-1.1 %), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1OHPhen) (0.2-0.4 %), and 1-hydroxypyrene (1OHPy) (0.1-0.2 %); urinary 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene was not detected. The exposure to wildfire emissions significantly elevated the median concentrations of each individual and total OHPAH compounds in all groups, but this effect was more pronounced in non-smoking (1.7-4.2 times; p ≤ 0.006) than in smoking firefighters (1.3-1.6 times; p ≤ 0.03). The greatest discriminant of exposure to wildfire emissions was 1OHNaph + 1OHAce (increase of 4.2 times), while for tobacco smoke it was 2OHFlu (increase of 10 times). Post-exposure, white blood cells count significantly increased ranging from 1.4 (smokers, p = 0.025) to 3.7-fold (non-smokers, p < 0.001), which was accompanied by stronger significant correlations (0.480 < r < 0.882; p < 0.04) between individual and total OHPAH and total white blood cells (and lymphocytes > monocytes > neutrophils in non-smokers), evidencing the impact of PAH released from wildfire on immune cells. This study identifies Portuguese firefighters with high levels of biomarkers of exposure to PAH and points out the importance of adopting biomonitoring schemes, that include multiple biomarkers of exposure and biomarkers of effect, and implementing mitigations strategies.

Toxoplasma gondii IgG Serointensity Is Positively Associated With Frailty.

BACKGROUND: Persistent inflammation related to aging ("inflammaging") is exacerbated by chronic infections and contributes to frailty in older adults. We hypothesized associations between Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), a common parasite causing an oligosymptomatic unremitting infection, and frailty, and secondarily between T. gondii and previously reported markers of immune activation in frailty. METHODS: We analyzed available demographic, social, and clinical data in Spanish and Portuguese older adults [N = 601; age: mean (SD) 77.3 (8.0); 61% women]. Plasma T. gondii immunoglobulin G (IgG) serointensity was measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The Fried criteria were used to define frailty status. Validated translations of Mini-Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index were used to evaluate confounders. Previously analyzed biomarkers that were significantly associated with frailty in both prior reports and the current study, and also related to T. gondii serointensity, were further accounted for in multivariable logistic models with frailty as outcome. RESULTS: In T. gondii-seropositives, there was a significant positive association between T. gondii IgG serointensity and frailty, accounting for age (p = .0002), and resisting adjustment for multiple successive confounders. Among biomarkers linked with frailty, kynurenine/tryptophan and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor II were positively associated with T. gondii serointensity in seropositives (p < .05). Associations with other biomarkers were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: This first reported association between T. gondii and frailty is limited by a cross-sectional design and warrants replication. While certain biomarkers of inflammaging were associated with both T. gondii IgG serointensity and frailty, they did not fully mediate the T. gondii-frailty association.

DNA strand break levels in cryopreserved mononuclear blood cell lines measured by the alkaline comet assay: results from the hCOMET ring trial.

The comet assay is widely used in biomonitoring studies for the analysis of DNA damage in leukocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Rather than processing blood samples directly, it can be desirable to cryopreserve whole blood or isolated cells for later analysis by the comet assay. However, this creates concern about artificial accumulation of DNA damage during cryopreservation. In this study, 10 laboratories used standardized cryopreservation and thawing procedures of monocytic (THP-1) or lymphocytic (TK6) cells. Samples were cryopreserved in small aliquots in 50% foetal bovine serum, 40% cell culture medium, and 10% dimethyl sulphoxide. Subsequently, cryopreserved samples were analysed by the standard comet assay on three occasions over a 3-year period. Levels of DNA strand breaks in THP-1 cells were increased (four laboratories), unaltered (four laboratories), or decreased (two laboratories) by long-term storage. Pooled analysis indicates only a modest positive association between storage time and levels of DNA strand breaks in THP-1 cells (0.37% Tail DNA per year, 95% confidence interval: -0.05, 0.78). In contrast, DNA strand break levels were not increased by cryopreservation in TK6 cells. There was inter-laboratory variation in levels of DNA strand breaks in THP-1 cells (SD = 3.7% Tail DNA) and TK6 reference sample cells (SD = 9.4% Tail DNA), whereas the intra-laboratory residual variation was substantially smaller (i.e. SD = 0.4%-2.2% Tail DNA in laboratories with the smallest and largest variation). In conclusion, the study shows that accumulation of DNA strand breaks in cryopreserved mononuclear blood cell lines is not a matter of concern.

Long-term cryopreservation of potassium bromate positive assay controls for measurement of oxidatively damaged DNA by the Fpg-modified comet assay: results from the hCOMET ring trial.

The formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg)-modified comet assay is widely used for the measurement of oxidatively generated damage to DNA. However, there has not been a recommended long-term positive control for this version of the comet assay. We have investigated potassium bromate as a positive control for the Fpg-modified comet assay because it generates many Fpg-sensitive sites with a little concurrent generation of DNA strand breaks. Eight laboratories used the same procedure for the treatment of monocytic THP-1 cells with potassium bromate (0, 0.5, 1.5, and 4.5 mM) and subsequent cryopreservation in a freezing medium consisting of 50% foetal bovine serum, 40% RPMI-1640 medium, and 10% dimethyl sulphoxide. The samples were analysed by the Fpg-modified comet assay three times over a 3-year period. All laboratories obtained a positive concentration-response relationship in cryopreserved samples (linear regression coefficients ranging from 0.79 to 0.99). However, there was a wide difference in the levels of Fpg-sensitive sites between the laboratory with the lowest (4.2% Tail DNA) and highest (74% Tail DNA) values in THP-1 cells after exposure to 4.5 mM KBrO3. In an attempt to assess sources of inter-laboratory variation in Fpg-sensitive sites, comet images from one experiment in each laboratory were forwarded to a central laboratory for visual scoring. There was high consistency between measurements of %Tail DNA values in each laboratory and the visual score of the same comets done in the central laboratory (r = 0.98, P < 0.001, linear regression). In conclusion, the results show that potassium bromate is a suitable positive comet assay control.

Visual comet scoring revisited: a guide to scoring comet assay slides and obtaining reliable results.

Measurement of DNA migration in the comet assay can be done by image analysis or visual scoring. The latter accounts for 20%-25% of the published comet assay results. Here we assess the intra- and inter-investigator variability in visual scoring of comets. We include three training sets of comet images, which can be used as reference for researchers who wish to use visual scoring of comets. Investigators in 11 different laboratories scored the comet images using a five-class scoring system. There is inter-investigator variation in the three training sets of comets (i.e. coefficient of variation (CV) = 9.7%, 19.8%, and 15.2% in training sets I-III, respectively). However, there is also a positive correlation of inter-investigator scoring in the three training sets (r = 0.60). Overall, 36% of the variation is attributed to inter-investigator variation and 64% stems from intra-investigator variation in scoring between comets (i.e. the comets in training sets I-III look slightly different and this gives rise to heterogeneity in scoring). Intra-investigator variation in scoring was also assessed by repeated analysis of the training sets by the same investigator. There was larger variation when the training sets were scored over a period of six months (CV = 5.9%-9.6%) as compared to 1 week (CV = 1.3%-6.1%). A subsequent study revealed a high inter-investigator variation when premade slides, prepared in a central laboratory, were stained and scored by investigators in different laboratories (CV = 105% and 18%-20% in premade slides with comets from unexposed and hydrogen peroxide-exposed cells, respectively). The results indicate that further standardization of visual scoring is desirable. Nevertheless, the analysis demonstrates that visual scoring is a reliable way of analysing DNA migration in comets.

Inter-laboratory variation in measurement of DNA damage by the alkaline comet assay in the hCOMET ring trial.

The comet assay is a simple and versatile method for measurement of DNA damage in eukaryotic cells. More specifically, the assay detects DNA migration from agarose gel-embedded nucleoids, which depends on assay conditions and the level of DNA damage. Certain steps in the comet assay procedure have substantial impact on the magnitude of DNA migration (e.g. electric potential and time of electrophoresis). Inter-laboratory variation in DNA migration levels occurs because there is no agreement on optimal assay conditions or suitable assay controls. The purpose of the hCOMET ring trial was to test potassium bromate (KBrO3) as a positive control for the formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg)-modified comet assay. To this end, participating laboratories used semi-standardized protocols for cell culture (i.e. cell culture, KBrO3 exposure, and cryopreservation of cells) and comet assay procedures, whereas the data acquisition was not standardized (i.e. staining of comets and image analysis). Segregation of the total variation into partial standard deviation (SD) in % Tail DNA units indicates the importance of cell culture procedures (SD = 10.9), comet assay procedures (SD = 12.3), staining (SD = 7.9) and image analysis (SD = 0.5) on the overall inter-laboratory variation of DNA migration (SD = 18.2). Future studies should assess sources of variation in each of these steps. On the positive side, the hCOMET ring trial demonstrates that KBrO3 is a robust positive control for the Fpg-modified comet assay. In conclusion, the hCOMET ring trial has demonstrated a high reproducibility of detecting genotoxic effects by the comet assay, but inter-laboratory variation of DNA migration levels is a concern.

Mitochondrial and Redox Changes in Periodontitis and Type 2 Diabetes Human Blood Mononuclear Cells.

Periodontitis (PDT) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) have demonstrated a bidirectional relationship and imbalanced oxidative stress linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, we investigated mitochondrial and redox (de)regulation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in comorbid T2D-PDT, compared to PDT, T2D patients, and control individuals. PBMCs were analyzed for mitochondrial respiration, reactive oxygen species, antioxidant proteins, and expression of Nrf2-target genes. PDT and T2D-PDT patients exhibited altered periodontal clinical markers, while T2D and T2D-PDT patients displayed increased blood HbA1c. Decreased oxygen consumption and ATP production were observed in the PDT patient's PBMCs. PDT and T2D-PDT PBMCs also evidenced increased H2O2 levels and reduced catalase levels (also detected in T2D patients), whereas a compromised glutathione cycle was observed in T2D-PDT patients. PBMCs from both T2D or T2D-PDT patients showed increased Nrf2 protein levels, enhanced GCL activity and GCL-catalytic subunit protein levels, and maintained GCLc, GST, and HO-1 mRNA levels. In contrast, the expressions of Nrf2-target genes were significantly diminished in the PDT patient's PBMCs. Decreased SOD1 and GST mRNA levels were also observed in CD3+CD8+-lymphocytes derived from PDT and T2D-PDT patients. In conclusion, PBMCs from T2D-PDT patients showed major redox changes, while mononuclear cells from PDT patients showed mitochondrial deregulation and reduced expression of Nrf2-target genes.

Measuring DNA modifications with the comet assay: a compendium of protocols.

The comet assay is a versatile method to detect nuclear DNA damage in individual eukaryotic cells, from yeast to human. The types of damage detected encompass DNA strand breaks and alkali-labile sites (e.g., apurinic/apyrimidinic sites), alkylated and oxidized nucleobases, DNA-DNA crosslinks, UV-induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and some chemically induced DNA adducts. Depending on the specimen type, there are important modifications to the comet assay protocol to avoid the formation of additional DNA damage during the processing of samples and to ensure sufficient sensitivity to detect differences in damage levels between sample groups. Various applications of the comet assay have been validated by research groups in academia, industry and regulatory agencies, and its strengths are highlighted by the adoption of the comet assay as an in vivo test for genotoxicity in animal organs by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The present document includes a series of consensus protocols that describe the application of the comet assay to a wide variety of cell types, species and types of DNA damage, thereby demonstrating its versatility.

Association of Torquetenovirus Viremia with Physical Frailty and Cognitive Impairment in Three Independent European Cohorts.

INTRODUCTION: Immunosenescence and inflammaging have been implicated in the pathophysiology of frailty. Torquetenovirus (TTV), a single-stranded DNA anellovirus, the major component of the human blood virome, shows an increased replication rate with advancing age. An elevated TTV viremia has been associated with an impaired immune function and an increased risk of mortality in the older population. The objective of this study was to analyze the relation between TTV viremia, physical frailty, and cognitive impairment. METHODS: TTV viremia was measured in 1,131 nonfrail, 45 physically frail, and 113 cognitively impaired older adults recruited in the MARK-AGE study (overall mean age 64.7 ± 5.9 years), and then the results were checked in two other independent cohorts from Spain and Portugal, including 126 frail, 252 prefrail, and 141 nonfrail individuals (overall mean age: 77.5 ± 8.3 years). RESULTS: TTV viremia ≥4log was associated with physical frailty (OR: 4.69; 95% CI: 2.06-10.67, p < 0.0001) and cognitive impairment (OR: 3.49, 95% CI: 2.14-5.69, p < 0.0001) in the MARK-AGE population. The association between TTV DNA load and frailty status was confirmed in the Spanish cohort, while a slight association with cognitive impairment was observed (OR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.000-1.773), only in the unadjusted model. No association between TTV load and frailty or cognitive impairment was found in the Portuguese sample, although a negative association between TTV viremia and MMSE score was observed in Spanish and Portuguese females. CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate an association between TTV viremia and physical frailty, while the association with cognitive impairment was observed only in the younger population from the MARK-AGE study. Further research is necessary to clarify TTV's clinical relevance in the onset and progression of frailty and cognitive decline in older individuals.

Conhecimento de pacientes com câncer sobre cuidados paliativos: estudo bibliométrico / Knowledge of patients with cancer about palliative care: a bibliometric study / Conocimiento de los pacientes con cáncer sobre cuidados paliativos: un estudio bibliométrico

Resumo Esta pesquisa busca caracterizar os indicadores bibliométricos acerca do conhecimento de pacientes com câncer sobre cuidados paliativos. Por meio da associação dos descritores " patient ", " palliative care ", " knowledge " e " neoplasm " encontrou-se baixa taxa de publicação, com tendência a elevação, além de rede de conexão limitada entre os autores. Os países asiáticos foram os que mais publicaram, mas observou-se nível de conhecimento limitado sobre o tema, pois há forte associação com cuidados de fim de vida, destinados apenas a pacientes com câncer, internados em hospital e sem cura. Este estudo permitiu mapear os principais indicadores bibliométricos a respeito do conhecimento de pacientes com câncer sobre os cuidados paliativos, sendo perceptível o crescimento de publicações sobre o tema, mas ainda com baixa quantidade total. Evidencia-se, assim, a necessidade de mais publicações para a obtenção de maior entendimento sobre o tema.

Abstract This research seeks to characterize the bibliometric indicators regarding cancer patients's knowledge about palliative care. Bibliographic search associating the descriptors " patient, " " palliative care, " " knowledge " and " neoplasm " found low publication ratio and limited conexion among authors. Asian countries account for most publications, but the level of knowledge on the topic was limited given its strong association with end-of-life care aimed at hospitalized cancer patients without possibility of cure. Mapping the main bibliometric indicators on knowledge about palliative care pointed out the need for further publications on the topic to provide better understanding.

Resumen Este estudio tiene como objetivo caracterizar los indicadores bibliométricos de conocimiento de los pacientes con cáncer sobre cuidados paliativos. A partir de la asociación entre las palabras clave " patient ", " palliative care ", " knowledge " y " neoplasm ", se constató una baja tasa de publicación, con tendencia al alza, así como una limitada red de conexiones entre autores. Los países asiáticos fueron los que más publicaron, aunque el nivel de conocimientos sobre el tema era limitado, ya que lo asocian a los cuidados al final de la vida, destinados únicamente a los pacientes oncológicos, hospitalizados y no curados. Este estudio permitió trazar los principales indicadores bibliométricos sobre el conocimiento de los cuidados paliativos por parte de los pacientes con cáncer, y se observó que hubo un aumento de las publicaciones sobre el tema, aunque el número total sigue siendo bajo. Esto pone de manifiesto la necesidad de más publicaciones para conocer mejor el tema.

Relationship between DNA damage measured by the comet-assay and cognitive function.

Recent studies exploring the relationship between DNA damage measured by the comet assay (single-cell gel electrophoresis) and cognitive function in both animal models and humans are reviewed and summarized. This manuscript provides an overview of studies exploring cognitive dysfunction related to DNA damage due to biological ageing process, cancer treatment, adverse environmental or occupational exposures, and prenatal genotoxic exposure. The review confirms the potential of comet assay to further explore the link between DNA damage, as indicative of genomic instability, and cognitive impairment in different research and clinical areas. Analysed studies support, in fact, the significant relationship between DNA damage and cognitive impairment, mainly affecting attention, working memory and executive functions. These cognitive domains are crucial to daily functioning and occupational performance, with important clinical implications. Although evidence support the relationship between DNA damage measured by the comet assay and cognitive function in different settings, further longitudinal research is needed to disentangle the temporal relationship between them over time, and to explore the potential of comet assay-detected DNA lesions to predict response to interventions.

Cuidados paliativos e comunicação: uma reflexão à luz da teoria do final de vida pacífico / Palliative care and communication: a reflection in the light of the peaceful end of life theory / Cuidados paliativos y comunicación: una reflexión a la luz de la teoría del final pacífico de la vida

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a contribuição do cuidado de enfermagem, com ênfase na comunicação, para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos na fase terminal e seus familiares. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado em um Hospital Filantrópico da cidade de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, em 2019, desenvolvido com 15 familiares de pacientes em cuidados paliativos, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo, proposta por Bardin, à luz da Teoria do Final de Vida Pacífico. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: 'A comunicação dos profissionais de enfermagem como estratégia para promover conforto, paz, dignidade e respeito para pacientes e familiares em cuidados paliativos'; 'A presença e o diálogo de pessoas importantes para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos são fundamentais para um final de vida pacífico.' Conclusão: espera-se que, através desse estudo, seja possível aprimorar a assistência à família acerca da comunicação nos cuidados paliativos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the contribution of nursing care, with emphasis on communication, for the patient under palliative care in the terminal phase and their families. Method: qualitative study, conducted in a Philanthropic Hospital in the city of João Pessoa-PB, Brazil, in 2019, developed with 15 family members of patients in palliative care, through semi-structured interviews. The data were submitted to content analysis, proposed by Bardin, in the light of the Pacific End of Life Theory. Results: two categories emerged: 'Communication by nursing professionals as a strategy to promote comfort, peace, dignity and respect for patients and families in palliative care'; 'The presence and dialogue of people important to the patient under palliative care are fundamental for a peaceful end of life.' Conclusion: it is hoped that, through this study, it will be possible to improve assistance to the family about communication in palliative care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la contribución de los cuidados de enfermería, con énfasis en la comunicación, para el paciente en cuidados paliativos en fase terminal y sus familias. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un Hospital Filantrópico de la ciudad de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, en 2019, desarrollado con 15 familiares de pacientes en cuidados paliativos, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los datos fueron sometidos a un análisis de contenido, propuesto por Bardin, a la luz de la Teoría del Final Tranquilo de la Vida. Resultados: surgieron dos categorías: "La comunicación de los profesionales de enfermería como estrategia para promover el confort, la paz, la dignidad y el respeto a los pacientes y familiares en los cuidados paliativos"; "La presencia y el diálogo de las personas importantes para el paciente en los cuidados paliativos son fundamentales para un final de vida tranquilo". Conclusión: se espera que, a través de este estudio, sea posible mejorar la asistencia a la familia sobre la comunicación en los cuidados paliativos.

Cuidados paliativos e comunicação: uma reflexão à luz da teoria do final de vida pacífico / Palliative care and communication: a reflection in the light of the peaceful end of life theory / Cuidados paliativos y comunicación: una reflexión a la luz de la teoría del final pacífico de la vida

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a contribuição do cuidado de enfermagem, com ênfase na comunicação, para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos na fase terminal e seus familiares. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado em um Hospital Filantrópico da cidade de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, em 2019, desenvolvido com 15 familiares de pacientes em cuidados paliativos, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo, proposta por Bardin, à luz da Teoria do Final de Vida Pacífico. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: 'A comunicação dos profissionais de enfermagem como estratégia para promover conforto, paz, dignidade e respeito para pacientes e familiares em cuidados paliativos'; 'A presença e o diálogo de pessoas importantes para o paciente sob cuidados paliativos são fundamentais para um final de vida pacífico.' Conclusão: espera-se que, através desse estudo, seja possível aprimorar a assistência à família acerca da comunicação nos cuidados paliativos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the contribution of nursing care, with emphasis on communication, for the patient under palliative care in the terminal phase and their families. Method: qualitative study, conducted in a Philanthropic Hospital in the city of João Pessoa-PB, Brazil, in 2019, developed with 15 family members of patients in palliative care, through semi-structured interviews. The data were submitted to content analysis, proposed by Bardin, in the light of the Pacific End of Life Theory. Results: two categories emerged: 'Communication by nursing professionals as a strategy to promote comfort, peace, dignity and respect for patients and families in palliative care'; 'The presence and dialogue of people important to the patient under palliative care are fundamental for a peaceful end of life.' Conclusion: it is hoped that, through this study, it will be possible to improve assistance to the family about communication in palliative care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la contribución de los cuidados de enfermería, con énfasis en la comunicación, para el paciente en cuidados paliativos en fase terminal y sus familias. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado en un Hospital Filantrópico de la ciudad de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, en 2019, desarrollado con 15 familiares de pacientes en cuidados paliativos, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los datos fueron sometidos a un análisis de contenido, propuesto por Bardin, a la luz de la Teoría del Final Tranquilo de la Vida. Resultados: surgieron dos categorías: "La comunicación de los profesionales de enfermería como estrategia para promover el confort, la paz, la dignidad y el respeto a los pacientes y familiares en los cuidados paliativos"; "La presencia y el diálogo de las personas importantes para el paciente en los cuidados paliativos son fundamentales para un final de vida tranquilo". Conclusión: se espera que, a través de este estudio, sea posible mejorar la asistencia a la familia sobre la comunicación en los cuidados paliativos.

Nurses' performance in palliative care: spiritual care in the light of Theory of Human Caring / El desempeño de las enfermeras en cuidados paliativos: el cuidado espiritual a la luz de la Teoría del Cuidado Humano / Atuação de enfermeiros em cuidados paliativos: cuidado espiritual à luz da Teoria do Cuidado Humano

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze nurses' role in assisting patients in palliative care, with emphasis on the spiritual dimension, in the light of Theory of Human Caring. Methods: this is an exploratory, qualitative study, carried out in a hospital in João Pessoa, Paraíba, between August and December 2019, with 10 nurses. For data collection, semi-structured interviews were used. For analysis, we opted for content analysis. Results: the spiritual dimension of care is contemplated by several religious and spiritual practices. These are respected and encouraged by nurses, although there is difficulty in providing care for the spiritual dimension. Final Considerations: nurses have attitudes consistent with Jean Watson's Theory and apply the Caritas Process elements during assistance to patients' spiritual dimension in palliative care.

RESUMEN Objetivos: analizar el papel del enfermero en la asistencia a los pacientes en cuidados paliativos, con énfasis en la dimensión espiritual, a la luz de la Teoría del Cuidado Humano. Métodos: estudio exploratorio, cualitativo, realizado en un hospital ubicado en João Pessoa, Paraíba, entre agosto y diciembre de 2019, con 10 enfermeras. Para la recolección de datos se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas. Para el análisis, optamos por la técnica de análisis de contenido. Resultados la dimensión espiritual del cuidado es contemplada por diversas prácticas religiosas y espirituales. Estos son respetados y alentados por las enfermeras, aunque existe dificultad para atender la dimensión espiritual. Consideraciones Finales: las enfermeras tienen actitudes congruentes con la Teoría de Jean Watson y aplican los elementos del Proceso Caritas durante la asistencia a la dimensión espiritual del paciente en cuidados paliativos.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar a atuação de enfermeiros na assistência a pacientes em cuidados paliativos, com destaque para a dimensão espiritual, à luz da Teoria do Cuidado Humano. Métodos: estudo exploratório, qualitativo, realizado em um hospital localizado em João Pessoa, Paraíba, entre agosto e dezembro de 2019, com 10 enfermeiros. Para coleta de dados, utilizou-se a entrevista semiestruturada. Para análise, optou-se pela técnica de análise de conteúdo. Resultados: a dimensão espiritual do cuidado é contemplada por diversas práticas religiosas e espirituais. Essas são respeitadas e incentivadas pelos enfermeiros, embora exista dificuldade para realizar o atendimento da dimensão espiritual. Considerações Finais: os enfermeiros possuem atitudes congruentes com a Teoria de Jean Watson e aplicam os elementos do Processo Caritas durante a assistência à dimensão espiritual do paciente em cuidados paliativos.

Exploring Early Detection of Frailty Syndrome in Older Adults: Evaluation of Oxi-Immune Markers, Clinical Parameters and Modifiable Risk Factors.

Ageing is accompanied with a decline in several physiological systems. Frailty is an age-related syndrome correlated to the loss of homeostasis and increased vulnerability to stressors, which is associated with increase in the risk of disability, comorbidity, hospitalisation, and death in older adults. The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between frailty syndrome, immune activation, and oxidative stress. Serum concentrations of vitamins A and E were also evaluated, as well as inflammatory biomarkers (CRP and IL-6) and oxidative DNA levels. A group of Portuguese older adults (≥65 years old) was engaged in this study and classified according to Fried's frailty phenotype. Significant increases in the inflammatory mediators (CRP and IL-6), neopterin levels, kynurenine to tryptophan ratio (Kyn/Trp), and phenylalanine to tyrosine ratio (Phe/Tyr), and significant decreases in Trp and Tyr concentrations were observed in the presence of frailty. IL-6, neopterin, and Kyn/Trp showed potential as predictable biomarkers of frailty syndrome. Several clinical parameters such as nutrition, dependency scales, and polypharmacy were related to frailty and, consequently, may influence the associations observed. Results obtained show a progressive immune activation and production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the presence of frailty, agreeing with the inflammageing model. Future research should include different dimensions of frailty, including psychological, social, biological, and environmental factors.

Nurses' performance in palliative care: spiritual care in the light of Theory of Human Caring.

OBJECTIVES: to analyze nurses' role in assisting patients in palliative care, with emphasis on the spiritual dimension, in the light of Theory of Human Caring. METHODS: this is an exploratory, qualitative study, carried out in a hospital in João Pessoa, Paraíba, between August and December 2019, with 10 nurses. For data collection, semi-structured interviews were used. For analysis, we opted for content analysis. RESULTS: the spiritual dimension of care is contemplated by several religious and spiritual practices. These are respected and encouraged by nurses, although there is difficulty in providing care for the spiritual dimension. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: nurses have attitudes consistent with Jean Watson's Theory and apply the Caritas Process elements during assistance to patients' spiritual dimension in palliative care.

The hCOMET project: International database comparison of results with the comet assay in human biomonitoring. Baseline frequency of DNA damage and effect of main confounders.

The alkaline comet assay, or single cell gel electrophoresis, is one of the most popular methods for assessing DNA damage in human population. One of the open issues concerning this assay is the identification of those factors that can explain the large inter-individual and inter-laboratory variation. International collaborative initiatives such as the hCOMET project - a COST Action launched in 2016 - represent a valuable tool to meet this challenge. The aims of hCOMET were to establish reference values for the level of DNA damage in humans, to investigate the effect of host factors, lifestyle and exposure to genotoxic agents, and to compare different sources of assay variability. A database of 19,320 subjects was generated, pooling data from 105 studies run by 44 laboratories in 26 countries between 1999 and 2019. A mixed random effect log-linear model, in parallel with a classic meta-analysis, was applied to take into account the extensive heterogeneity of data, due to descriptor, specimen and protocol variability. As a result of this analysis interquartile intervals of DNA strand breaks (which includes alkali-labile sites) were reported for tail intensity, tail length, and tail moment (comet assay descriptors). A small variation by age was reported in some datasets, suggesting higher DNA damage in oldest age-classes, while no effect could be shown for sex or smoking habit, although the lack of data on heavy smokers has still to be considered. Finally, highly significant differences in DNA damage were found for most exposures investigated in specific studies. In conclusion, these data, which confirm that DNA damage measured by the comet assay is an excellent biomarker of exposure in several conditions, may contribute to improving the quality of study design and to the standardization of results of the comet assay in human populations.

Genomic instability as a main driving factor of unsuccessful ageing: Potential for translating the use of micronuclei into clinical practice.

Genome instability denotes an increased tendency to alterations in the genome during cell life cycle, driven by a large variety of endogenous and exogenous insults. Ageing is characterized by the presence of damage to various cellular constituents, but genome alterations, randomly accumulating with age in different tissues, constitute the key target in this process, and are believed to be the main factor of ageing. Age-related failure of DNA repair pathways allows DNA lesions to occur more frequently, and their accumulation over time contributes to the age-associated decrease in genome integrity in somatic cells. The micronucleus (MN) test is one of the most widely used assays to evaluate genomic instability in different surrogate tissues. A large number of studies has consistently shown a progressive increase in MN frequency with age, starting from very young age groups onwards. Therefore, MN frequency is a suitable biomarker of genomic instability in ageing. Frailty is a multidimensional geriatric syndrome of unsuccessful ageing, characterized by decreased biological reserves and increased vulnerability to external stressors, involving a higher risk of negative health outcomes. Although there is a well-founded belief that genome instability is involved in the frailty syndrome, only two studies investigated the relationship between MN frequency and frailty, not allowing to draw a definite conclusion on the utility of this biomarker for frailty detection. The use of MN and other genomic biomarkers in the detection and follow-up of patients affected by or at risk of frailty has the potential to accumulate evidence on the clinical impact of this approach in the identification and control of frailty in older people.