Evaluating the circulation of Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia spp. in domestic dogs from a semiarid region in Brazil.

Tick-borne diseases are important for animal and human health, because they can cause death if not diagnosed and treated early. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) can cause high morbidity in dog populations. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is among the most virulent infectious in humans; dogs are also susceptible to infection. The aims of this study were to evaluate the presence of Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia spp. infections in domestic dogs, and to identify tick species parasitizing dogs among urban areas of two municipalities (Sobral and Alcântaras) in the Ceará State, Northeastern Brazil. A total of 208 domiciled dogs was sampled. After clinical evaluation, blood samples and ticks were collected and submitted to Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) targeting E. canis DNA. Serum samples were screened by Indirect Immunofluorescence Assays (IFA) for antibodies against different strains of Rickettsia spp. previously recognized in Brazil. The results of this study indicate the molecular detection of E. canis in the state of Ceará, Brazil, where the proportion of canine infection in Sobral (9.9%) was higher than in Alcântaras (5.6%). Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato was the prevalent tick species infesting the dogs in both municipalities (43.5 and 53.3%, respectively). Our serological results indicate that dogs of the study area were at low risk of exposure to these tick-borne Rickettsia spp. of the spotted fever group. Our study offers epidemiological data of these diseases to better understanding Rickettsiales epidemic and enzootic cycles in the Brazilian semiarid region, improving prevention and control measures.

Neurofibromatosis in the gluteus and posterior region of the thigh: case report / Neurofibromatose em glúteo e região posterior da coxa: relato de caso

Introduction: Neurofibromatosis is an autosomal dominant disorder, and type 1 is associated with an increased risk of tumor formation with neurocutaneous involvement. The variable evolution, often with limiting tumors, in addition to the significant incidence of cases requiring treatment, makes it fundamental to discuss procedures already performed in medical practice for early, careful, and individualized recognition of the diagnosis and treatment of the patient. The report aims to present a surgical case of neurofibromatosis, calling attention to the surgical technique, the characteristics of the disease, and the importance of the procedure in the quality of life of patients limited by the condition. Case Report: A 23-year-old male patient with a large mass neurofibroma in the gluteus and posterior surface of the right leg, in addition to café au lait stains in the distal third of the legs. He was treated with surgery to remove the tumor and a flap and graft in the affected region. The procedures were performed by a multidisciplinary team, allowing the total removal of the tumor mass, with subsequent skin grafting in the hip and thigh lesion on the right side and the fasciocutaneous flap in VY in the area. There were no significant complications in the immediate postoperative period. Conclusion: Neurofibromas can become limiting and impair patients' quality of life with neurofibromatosis type 1; therefore, early management and diagnosis are essential. Although the condition does not present a cure, there is a need for research into less invasive and preventive treatments for injuries.

Introdução: A neurofibromatose é um distúrbio autossômico dominante e o tipo 1 está associado a um aumento do risco de formação de tumores com acometimento neurocutâneo. A evolução variável, muitas vezes com tumorações limitantes, além da incidência significativa de casos que necessitam de tratamento, torna fundamental a discussão de condutas já realizadas na prática médica para um reconhecimento precoce, cuidadoso e individualizado do diagnóstico e do tratamento do enfermo. O relato objetiva apresentar um caso cirúrgico de neurofibromatose, chamando atenção para a técnica cirúrgica, as características da doença e a importância do procedimento na qualidade de vida de pacientes limitados pela afecção. Relato de Caso: Paciente de 23 anos, sexo masculino, com neurofibroma de grande massa em glúteo e face posterior da perna direita, além de manchas café com leite em terço distal de pernas. Foi tratado com uma cirurgia de retirada do tumor, além de retalho e enxerto na região acometida. Os procedimentos foram realizados por equipe multidisciplinar, possibilitando a retirada total da massa tumoral, com posterior realização de enxerto de pele na lesão do quadril e coxa em lado direito, e o retalho fasciocutâneo em V-Y na área. Não houve complicações significativas nos pós-operatórios imediatos.

Pitiose cutânea em equino no sertão do Ceará / Skin pythiosis in horse in the backwoods of the Ceará State

A pitiose é uma infecção invasiva ulcerativa piogranulomatosa causada pelo oomiceto Pythium insidiosum, parasita de plantas aquáticas em águas estagnadas. Apesar de não serem raros os relatos de pitiose nas espécies domésticas, a espécie equina é a mais afetada. A enfermidade pode ser adquirida através da colonização de lesões traumáticas e do folículo piloso. Em casos dessa infecção, pode-se encontrar hifas recobertas por células necróticas, formando massas branco-amareladas semelhantes a corais, denominadas de kunkers. As lesões são localizadas prioritariamente nas extremidades distais dos membros e na porção ventral da parede tóraco-abdominal. O diagnóstico da pitiose está relacionado a um prognóstico reservado dependendo do grau de comprometimento anatômico que a enfermidade se encontra. Diante do exposto, este trabalho teve como objetivo relatar um caso de pitiose cutânea em um equino, fêmea da raça Mangalarga Machador. O animal apresentava lesões ulcerativas no membro torácico esquerdo e no membro pélvico esquerdo. O tratamento escolhido foi o cirúrgico e imunoterápico, com intuito de remover todo o tecido lesionado e, posteriormente, coletar material para realização do exame histopatológico. O equino foi submetido a um protocolo pós-operatório com a terapia antitetânica por via intramuscular. A antibioticoterapia sistêmica foi realizada com penicilina benzatina, anti-inflamatório esteroidal, dexametasona foi realizada uma vez ao dia, durante cinco dias. Posteriormente, optou-se pelo uso do anti-inflamatório não esteroidal maxicam uma vez ao dia, durante cinco dias. O animal recebeu quatro doses do imunoterápico PITIUM-VAC por via subcutânea, com intervalo de 14 dias entre uma e outra aplicação, apresentando uma resposta satisfatória ao tratamento.

Pythiosis is an invasive ulcerative pyogranulomatous infection caused by the Oomycete Pythium insidiosum, a parasite of aquatic plants in standing water. Although reports of pythiosis in domestic species are not uncommon, equine species are the most affected. The disease can be acquired through the colonization of traumatic lesions and hair follicles. Hyphae covered by necrotic cells, forming yellowish-white coral-like masses called "kunkers" can be found. The lesions are located primarily on the distal extremities of the limbs and on the ventral portion of the thoracoabdominal wall. The diagnosis of pythiosis is linked to a poor prognosis, depending on the degree of anatomical involvement of the disease. Thus, this work aimed to report a case of cutaneous pythiosis in a female Mangalarga Machador equine. The animal presented ulcerative lesions on the left thoracic limb and the left pelvic limb. The chosen treatment was surgery and immunotherapy to remove all the injured tissue and, later, collect the material for histopathological examination. The horse was submitted to a post-operative protocol with intramuscular anti-tetanus therapy. Systemic antibiotic therapy with benzathine penicillin, steroidal anti-inflammatory, dexamethasone was performed once a day for five days. Subsequently, it was decided to use the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory maxicam once a day for five days. The animal received four doses of the immunotherapy PITIUM-VAC subcutaneously, with an interval of 14 days between applications, presenting a satisfactory response to the treatment.

The importance of optimal 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in the glycemic control of older adults with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Data from the study on aging and longevity EELO

INTRODUCTION: Optimal serum levels of vitamin D are of great importance, especially in populations with comorbidities such as Diabetes Mellitus (DM). OBJECTIVE: The study evaluated the relationship between hypovitaminosis D and glycemic control in older adults with type 2 DM. METHODS: Cross-sectional and prospective study, part of the EELO project (Study on Aging and Longevity), conducted in Southern Brazil. Glycated hemoglobin (diabetes ≥6.5%) and serum levels of vitamin D (25(OH)D) were evaluated. Hypovitaminosis D was determined using cutoff points <20 and <30 ng/mL). Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the risk of having uncontrolled DM. RESULTS: Of the 120 older adults included in the study, aged between 60 and 87 years, 74.2% were women, 66.7% used hypoglycemic medications and 75.8% exhibited uncontrolled diabetes. An inverse correlation was observed between the levels of 25(OH) D and glycated hemoglobin (rS=-0.19, p=0.037), suggesting that low levels of vitamin D are associated with poor glycemic control in diabetic individuals. The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D when using the cutoff points of <20 and <30 ng/mL were 34.2% and 75.0%, respectively. The odds ratio (OR) analysis showed that individuals with 25(OH)D<20ng/mL have almost 4 times more risk of having uncontrolled DM (OR:3.94; CI95%:1.25-12.46, p=0.02) when compared to the older adults with sufficient levels of vitamin D. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the optimal serum levels currently recommended for 25(OH)D should preferably be 30 ng/mL or higher to contribute to better glycemic control in older adults with type 2 DM.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os níveis séricos ideais de vitamina D são de grande importância, especialmente na população com comorbidades como o Diabetes Mellitus (DM). OBJETIVO: O estudo avaliou a relação entre hipovitaminose D e controle glicêmico em idosos com DM tipo 2. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal e prospectivo, parte do projeto EELO (Estudo sobre Envelhecimento e Longevidade), no Sul do Brasil. A hemoglobina glicada (diabetes ≥6,5%) e os níveis séricos de vitamina D (25(OH)D) foram avaliados. Hipovitaminose D foi determinada usando ponto de corte <20 e <30 ng/mL. Regressão logística multivariada foi utilizada para avaliar o risco de ter DM descompensado. RESULTADOS: Dos 120 idosos incluídos no estudo, idade entre 60 a 87 anos, 74,2% eram mulheres, 66,7% faziam uso de medicamentos hipoglicemiantes e 75,8% apresentavam diabetes descompensada. Uma correlação inversa foi observada entre os níveis de 25(OH)D e hemoglobina glicada (rS=-0,19; p=0.037), sugerindo que baixos níveis de vitamina D está associado a um pior controle glicêmico em diabéticos. A prevalência de hipovitaminose D quando se utiliza ponto de corte <20 e <30 ng/mL foi de 34,2% e 75,0%, respectivamente. A análise Odds ratio (OR) mostrou que indivíduos com 25(OH)D<20 ng/mL tem quase 4 vezes mais risco de ter DM descompensado (OR:3,94; IC95%:1,25­12,46; p=0,02) quando comparado aos idosos com níveis suficientes de vitamina D. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados indicam que os níveis sérios ideais atualmente recomendados para 25(OH)D maior ou igual a 30 ng/ml contribuem para o melhor controle glicêmico na população idosa com DM tipo 2.

Equine Infectious Anemia Virus (EIAV): Evidence of Circulation in Donkeys from the Brazilian Northeast Region.

Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is listed by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) as one of the equine diseases that must be notified. No effective treatment or vaccine is available. EIA control is based on segregation and euthanasia of positive equids. The disease is caused by the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV), a member of the genus Lentivirus of the Retroviridae family. Despite the importance of this disease in equids, EIA has been poorly studied in donkeys (Equus asinus). We evaluate the sanitary conditions related to EIAV in donkeys from a shelter of abandoned animals captured on the roads of the Ceará. A total of 124 donkeys were randomly selected, and three horses lived at the same shelter. The animals were clinically evaluated, and a group of the 20 animals was submitted to hematological tests. Three diagnostic tests for EIA were used, agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using EIAV recombinant protein gp90 (rgp90) and recombinant protein p26 (rp26) ELISA, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of the EIAV tat-gag gene. From the donkeys, only 1 animal was positive using AGID 0.81% (1/124), compared to 21.8% (27/124) in the rgp90 and 10.5% (13/124) in the rp26 ELISA. Proviral DNA was detected by PCR tat-gag in 8.8% (11/124), and phylogenetic analysis confirms that the EIAV sequences of donkeys from the Brazilian Northeast grouped with Pantanal Brazilian sequences. Thus, in light of the results, we conclude that donkeys are carriers of EIAV and could be sources of infection.

Internet of Everything (IoE) Taxonomies: A Survey and a Novel Knowledge-Based Taxonomy.

The paradigm of the Internet of everything (IoE) is advancing toward enriching people's lives by adding value to the Internet of things (IoT), with connections among people, processes, data, and things. This paper provides a survey of the literature on IoE research, highlighting concerns in terms of intelligence services and knowledge creation. The significant contributions of this study are as follows: (1) a systematic literature review of IoE taxonomies (including IoT); (2) development of a taxonomy to guide the identification of critical knowledge in IoE applications, an in-depth classification of IoE enablers (sensors and actuators); (3) validation of the defined taxonomy with 50 IoE applications; and (4) identification of issues and challenges in existing IoE applications (using the defined taxonomy) with regard to insights about knowledge processes. To the best of our knowledge, and taking into consideration the 76 other taxonomies compared, this present work represents the most comprehensive taxonomy that provides the orchestration of intelligence in network connections concerning knowledge processes, type of IoE enablers, observation characteristics, and technological capabilities in IoE applications.

Hypovitaminosis D, Low Bone Mineral Density, and Diabetes Mellitus as Probable Risk Factors for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in the Elderly

Abstract Introduction Studies have found that elderly patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may present low levels of vitamin D (25 (OH) D), changes in bone mineral density, and diabetes mellitus (DM). Objective To investigate the possible association between BPPV, bone mineral density, hypovitaminosis D, 25 (OH) D and DM. Methods The sample consisted of 109 elderly subjects. The BPPV was verified by a standardized questionnaire and the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. Blood samples were collected for the investigation of 25 (OH) D serum levels. The bone mineral density was evaluated by means of a densitometer. Diabetes mellitus verification was performed using a self-reported questionnaire. Results Of the 109 participants, 17 had BPPV. There was a statistically significant difference between BPPV and gender (p= 0.027, phi = 0.222), with female representing 88.2% of those with BPPV. In the group with BPPV, there was a statistically significant difference for the amount of vitamin D found (p= 0.001) and for age (p= 0.001). In the elderly group with DM and BPPV, a difference was found for the standard deviation of the femur (p= 0.022) with posthoc Dunn, identifying the difference between diabetics with and without BPPV (p= 0.047). Conclusion Although no association was found (25 (OH) D levels) with BPPV in the general population of this study, it was observed that there was an association with bone mineral density in the elderly group with DM and BPPV, and, in the group with BPPV, there was an association between the amount of vitamin D and age.

Hypovitaminosis D, Low Bone Mineral Density, and Diabetes Mellitus as Probable Risk Factors for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in the Elderly.

Introduction Studies have found that elderly patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may present low levels of vitamin D (25 (OH) D), changes in bone mineral density, and diabetes mellitus (DM). Objective : To investigate the possible association between BPPV, bone mineral density, hypovitaminosis D, 25 (OH) D and DM. Methods The sample consisted of 109 elderly subjects. The BPPV was verified by a standardized questionnaire and the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. Blood samples were collected for the investigation of 25 (OH) D serum levels. The bone mineral density was evaluated by means of a densitometer. Diabetes mellitus verification was performed using a self-reported questionnaire. Results Of the 109 participants, 17 had BPPV. There was a statistically significant difference between BPPV and gender ( p = 0.027, phi = 0.222), with female representing 88.2% of those with BPPV. In the group with BPPV, there was a statistically significant difference for the amount of vitamin D found ( p = 0.001) and for age ( p = 0.001). In the elderly group with DM and BPPV, a difference was found for the standard deviation of the femur ( p = 0.022) with posthoc Dunn, identifying the difference between diabetics with and without BPPV ( p = 0.047). Conclusion Although no association was found (25 (OH) D levels) with BPPV in the general population of this study, it was observed that there was an association with bone mineral density in the elderly group with DM and BPPV, and, in the group with BPPV, there was an association between the amount of vitamin D and age.

Toxicities of 4,5-Dihydroisoxazoles Against Root-Knot Nematodes and in Silico Studies of Their Modes of Action.

The present work sought to contribute to the development of new nematicides. Benzaldehydes were initially converted to nitrile oxides that underwent 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions with methyl acrylate to generate 4,5-dihydroisoxazoles. In in vitro tests, methyl 3-phenyl-4,5-dihydroisoxazole-5-carboxylate (1) and methyl 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-4,5-dihydroisoxazole-5-carboxylate (4) increased the mortality of Meloidogyne exigua and Meloidogyne incognita second-stage juveniles (J2). Compounds 1 and 4 presented necessary concentrations of 398 and 501 µg mL-1, respectively, to kill 50% of M. incognita J2 (LC50 values), while the value for carbofuran (positive control) was 168 µg mL-1. In in vivo tests, compounds 1 and 4 reduced the number of M. incognita galls in tomato roots by 70 and 40%, respectively, and the number of eggs by 89 and 44%. Using an in silico approach, we showed that compounds 1 and 4 were toxic to the nematodes by binding to the allosteric binding sites of the agonist-binding domains of the nematode nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These results opened up possibilities for further investigations aimed at developing novel commercial nematicides.

Cross-cultural adaptation of wheelchair skills test (version 4.3) for wheelchair users and caregivers to the Portuguese language (Brazil).

Objective: To perform cross-cultural adaptation of the Wheelchair Skills Test of manual wheelchair users and their caregivers into the Brazilian Portuguese language.Methods: The study was composed of translation, synthesis of translations, back-translation, review by an expert committee and pre-test, when the test was applied in the target population. Included were translators, subject specialists and coordinators to carry out the cross-cultural adaptation process, and manual wheelchair users and their caregivers with at least six months of wheelchair experience for the pre-test.Results: Forty-three people participated in the study, 30 for the pre-test and 13 for the stages that preceded the pre-test. The mean age of manual wheelchair users was 40.2 (±10.7) years and of caregivers was 44.2 (±15.7) years. Of the 47 phrases translated in the first stage, 36 discrepancies were found and resolved. During the analysis by the committee of experts the instrument underwent 13 modifications in order to achieve the best possible equivalence between the original version and the final version and was understandable by the people evaluated. The total pre-test scores of wheelchair users and their caregivers were 66.2 (±24.6) and 88.7 (±14.2), respectively.Conclusions: This instrument was able to evaluate the abilities of wheelchair users and their caregivers in Brazil, as well as being useful for training in rehabilitation programs.Implications for rehabilitationThe need to use wheelchair (WC) properly has made clinicians and rehabilitation professionals more concerned with assessing and training users' abilities with their WC.Cross-cultural adaptation allows for the linguistic modification of the original language of the evaluation tool into a new language and enables the comparison of research results in different countries.Immediate use of the instrument for WC users and caregivers in Brazil, both for evaluation and for training, is necessary and may be a means for rehabilitation professionals to improve their evaluations, their treatments and optimize the skills that aim at independence.

Cross-cultural adaptation and face validity of the Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire (Version 4.3) for caregivers / Adaptação transcultural e validade face do Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire (versão 4.3) para cuidadores

Abstract Introduction: In Brazil, there is a gap of assessment, encompassing the use of assistive technology and functional mobility of wheelchairs users and caregivers. The Wheelchair Skills Program (WSP) is an integrated system that includes elements for testing and training wheelchair users, clinicians and/or their caregivers. Objective: Cross-cultural adaptation of the Portuguese-Brazil version of the Wheelchair Skill Test Questionnaire (WST-Q Version 4.3), a component of the WSP, and to examine its face validity. Method: Interactive steps were applied to produce Portuguese-Brazil versions of the WST-Q. The Cultural, Idiomatic, Semantic and Conceptual Equivalences were evaluated by a Committee of Specialists. Fifteen informal caregivers were evaluated with the WST-Q Brazil. Results: Twenty-eight of the 131 sentences were modified for further understanding. Subsequent semantic analysis reached 96.18% agreement, and language equivalence (100%), cultural (99.2%) and conceptual (100%) agreement. The questionnaire was easily understood between caregivers and the expert committee judged the Brazilian version equivalent to Canadian original. Conclusion: Success was achieved in cross-cultural adaptation of the tool, members of the expert committee judged the Brazilian version equivalent to the original Canadian. The WST-Q Brazil version 4.3 for caregivers contemplated 33 wheelchair transfer skills, mobility outdoor and indoor.

Resumo Introdução: No Brasil, existe uma lacuna de ferramentas de avaliação que avaliem o uso da tecnologia assistiva e a mobilidade funcional de pessoas que usam cadeira de rodas e seus cuidadores. O Wheelchair Skills Program (WSP) é um sistema integrado que inclui instrumentos para a avaliação e o treino de usuários de cadeira de rodas, cuidadores e profissionais. Objetivos: Realizar a Adaptação transcultural para o Português do Brasil do Wheelchair Skill Test Questionnaire (WST-Q Version 4.3) - destinada aos cuidadores, um instrumento componente do WSP, além de avaliar a sua validade de face junto aos respondentes. Método: Foram aplicadas etapas interativas para produção da versão brasileira do WST-Q. Foram avaliadas as Equivalências Cultural, Idiomática, Semântica e Conceitual por um Comitê de Especialistas. Participaram quinze cuidadores informais (n=15), os quais foram avaliados com WST-Q Brasil. Resultados: Vinte e oito, das 131 frases, foram modificadas para maior entendimento. A análise semântica posterior alcançou 96,18% de concordância, e as equivalências idiomática (100%), cultural (99,2%) e conceitual (100%) de concordância O questionário se mostrou prático e de fácil compreensão entre a população alvo e comitê de especialistas. Conclusão: Obteve-se êxito na adaptação transcultural da ferramenta, os membros do comitê de especialistas julgaram a versão brasileira equivalente a original canadense. O WST-Q Brasil versão 4.3 para cuidadores contemplou 33 habilidades em cadeira de rodas de transferência, mobilidade dentro e fora de casa.

Caracterização do Estilo de Vida de Universitários do Ensino Superior a Distância / Characterization of distance Higher Education Lifestyle

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os aspectos do estilo de vida em jovens estudantes universitários da modalidade Ensino a Distância (EaD). Deste estudo transversal, participaram 104 universitários dos seguintes cursos: Pedagogia, Serviço Social e Licenciatura em Educação Física. Os instrumentos utilizados para coleta de dados foram três questionários: geral com a caracterização da população entrevistada, IPAQ para investigar o nível de atividade física habitual e o questionário estilo de vida fantástico. Para a análise estatística foi utilizado o software SPSS versão 20.0, para a descrição das variáveis pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis para comparação entre os grupos. A média de idade foi de 30±9 anos, prevalecendo o sexo feminino com 63,4%. Em relação ao estilo de vida, 18% apresentaram-se na escala "regular", 54% "bom", 25% "muito bom" e 3% "excelente". Observou-se que mais da metade dos universitários dos cursos de graduação do EaD foi classificada com um bom estilo de vida, porém os muito ativos apresentaram um pior escore. Estes resultados têm implicações para a caracterização do perfil universitário e permitem o desenvolvimento de programas de promoção da saúde específicos para disseminação e conscientização dos jovens adultos a adquirirem comportamentos saudáveis relacionados ao seu estilo de vida.(AU).

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Distance Education (EAD) Youth University Students lifestyle. 104 University students took part of this study belonging to the courses: Pedagogy, Social Work and Physical Education Teaching Degree. To give support to Research three questionnaires were used :General Questionnaire which aims the characterization of the Interviewed population, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and a lifestyle questionnaire. The mean age was 30 ± 9 years, prevailing the female gender with 63.4%. Regarding the scale lifestyle, 18% were "regular", 54% "good", 25% "very good" and 3% "excellent". This study analyzed through the questionnaires and statistical analysis program SPSS, that more than half of Undergraduate Distance Universiy courses, were classified asgood lifestyle, however, the very active ones had the worst scores.. These results have implications for the university profile characterization and allow the development of specific health promotion programs for the dissemination and awareness of Young Adults to acquire healthy behaviors concerning their lifestyle.(AU).

Modification of the Alere GIARDIA Ag TEST immunochromatography KIT methodology for its use in frozen fecal sediment of dogs and cats.

Giardia duodenalis is a worldwide intestinal parasite and is one of the most frequent protozoa species infecting dogs and cats. This study aimed to modify the methodology of Alere GIARDIA Ag TEST KIT for its use in frozen fecal sediments with different storage times in a freezer (-20°C), thus expanding the range of use of this methodology. One hundred fecal sediments from dogs (n=50) and cats (n=50) previously examined by optical microscopy for Giardia cysts were selected for this study. The agreement between the modified immunochromatography and microscopy results was calculated by Kappa coefficient. To evaluate the performance of the modified immunochromatography assay on samples with different storage time, the fecal sediments were divided into three groups according to the time of storage in a freezer: (a) ≤ 1 year (n=37); (b) > 1 year and ≤ 3 years (n=39); (c) > 10 years (max. 13 years) (n=24). The results obtained by the modified immunochromatography assay demonstrates a higher sensitivity of this technique when compared with microscopy, regardless of the frozen storage time. These results allow for the use of this methodology in a greater scope of analysis, especially in frozen fecal sediment triage in sample collections, enabling epidemiological and comparative analysis along different decades.

Modification of the Alere GIARDIA Ag TEST immunochromatography KIT methodology for its use in frozen fecal sediment of dogs and cats

ABSTRACT Giardia duodenalis is a worldwide intestinal parasite and is one of the most frequent protozoa species infecting dogs and cats. This study aimed to modify the methodology of Alere GIARDIA Ag TEST KIT for its use in frozen fecal sediments with different storage times in a freezer (-20°C), thus expanding the range of use of this methodology. One hundred fecal sediments from dogs (n=50) and cats (n=50) previously examined by optical microscopy for Giardia cysts were selected for this study. The agreement between the modified immunochromatography and microscopy results was calculated by Kappa coefficient. To evaluate the performance of the modified immunochromatography assay on samples with different storage time, the fecal sediments were divided into three groups according to the time of storage in a freezer: (a) ≤ 1 year (n=37); (b) > 1 year and ≤ 3 years (n=39); (c) > 10 years (max. 13 years) (n=24). The results obtained by the modified immunochromatography assay demonstrates a higher sensitivity of this technique when compared with microscopy, regardless of the frozen storage time. These results allow for the use of this methodology in a greater scope of analysis, especially in frozen fecal sediment triage in sample collections, enabling epidemiological and comparative analysis along different decades.

Avaliação dos Níveis de Atividade Física em Estudantes Universitários do Ensino a Distância / Evaluation of the Level of Physical Activity in University Students of Distance Education

Atualmente tem se observado que as incidências de mortes são ocasionadas por fatores relacionados ao comportamento humano, como no casoda inatividade física. Esta pesquisa se objetivou em avaliar o nível de atividade física habitual - AF em relação ao índice de massa corpórea -IMC em universitários do Ensino a distância - EaD, por meio do Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física - IPAQ. É um estudo do tipotransversal com o total de 107 universitários do EaD. Para as coletas de dados foi utilizado o questionário geral e o questionário IPAQ. O IMCfoi calculado pela equação IMC= peso corporal (Kg)/ altura (m)2, considerando os valores <18,5 kg abaixo do peso; e entre 18,5-24,9 kg peso normal; 25-29,9 kg sobrepeso; 30-34,9 kg obesidade leve; 35-39,9 kg obesidade moderada e obesidade mórbida >40 kg (CUNHA, 2009). A média de idade foi de 30,1±9,7 anos, prevalecendo o sexo feminino com 61,6%. Dos 107 entrevistados, 64,4% são praticantes de AF. Quanto ao IMC, 6,5% estão abaixo do peso; 46% estão no peso normal; 33% estão com sobrepeso; 9,3% estão com obesidade leve; 2% com obesidade moderada; 3,8% com obesidade mórbida, sendo 1,8%. Através dos dados analisados por meio do questionário GERAL, IPAQ e pelo programa de análise estatística SPSS se verificou que quanto maior o IMC, pior é a classificação quanto ao nível de atividade física. Sendo assim, nota-se a importância de ações voltadas para os universitários praticarem atividade física, além de estratégicas voltadas para a promoção da saúde e prevenção de doenças provenientes do sedentarismo.(AU);

It has now been observed that the incidence of deaths is caused by factors related to human behavior, as in the case of physical inactivity. This study aimed to evaluate the level of habitual physical activity (FA) in relation to the body mass index (BMI) in distance learning university students (EAD), through the International Questionnaire of Physical Activity (IPAQ). It is a cross-sectional study with a total of 107 university students. For data collection, the general questionnaire and the IPAQ questionnaire were used. The BMI was calculated by the equation BMI = body weight (kg) / height (m) 2, considering values <18.5 kg below weight; And between 18.5-24.9 kg normal weight; 25-29.9 kg overweight; 30-34.9 kg light obesity; 35-39.9 kg moderate obesity and morbid obesity> 40 kg (CUNHA, 2009). The mean age was 30.1 ± 9.7 years, prevailing the female sex with 61.6%. Of the 107 interviewees, 64.4% are AF practitioners. Regarding BMI 6.5% are underweight; 46% are in normal weight; 33% are overweight; 9.3% are lightly obese; 2% with moderate obesity; 3.8% with morbid obesity, being 1.8%. Through the data analyzed through the questionnaire GENERAL, IPAQ and the program of statistical analysis SPSS, it was verified that the higher the BMI, the worse the classification concerning the level of physical activity. Thus, we notice the importance of actions aimed at university students to practice physical activity, as well as strategies aimed at health promotion and prevention of sedentrary individuals' diseases.(AU);

Autobiografia após as cirurgias de revascularização miocárdica: história de vida na UTI cardíaca / Después de la autobiografía cirugía de revascularización miocárdica: la historia de vida en la UCI cardiaca / Autobiography after myocardial revascularization surgeries: life story at a cardiac ICU

Objective: to describe the life story (LS) of patients subjected to myocardial revascularization surgery (MRS), unveiling potentialdogmas in their reporting of the journey from the pre- through the immediate postoperative periods at a cardiac ICU. Methods: In thisfield study with qualitative design we collected life stories. Patients were first interviewed at their homes, using a guiding script. Theinterview was recorded in mp3 format. All recordings were later transcribed for research purposes. Results: Due to sample saturation,of eight patients interviewed, only five were selected to participate in the study. Study participants were categorized according toqualitative variables: sex, age, religion, marital status, number of children and operative period. On the basis of these variables, wehighlighted the most relevant information reported by each respondent. Conclusion: Experiencing a MRS may have a significant impacton physical and psychological aspects in the journey from the preoperative phase, to the surgical site and the immediate postoperativephase, especially anxiety, fear, apprehension, anger, revolt and sometimes even a lack of ability to accept a situation as it is.

Objetivo: describir las historias de vida (HV) de los pacientes sometidos a La CRM, revelando los posibles dogmas a través de susnarrativas de pre y postoperatorio en una UCI cardiaca. Método: Investigación de campo de enfoque cualitativo mediante lacolecta de las HV. Se iniciaron las entrevistas en las residencias de lós deponente, guiadas por un cuestionario guía y grabados enformato MP3. Después de lãs grabaciones estos han sido transformados en texto escrito para que estén disponibles para lainvestigación. Resultados: Se entrevistaron a 08 pacientes, 05 de ellos seleccionados, porque hemos obtenido el punto desaturación. Los sujetos fueron agrupados según sus variables cualitativas: sexo, edad, religión, estado civil, filiación y el período deoperación, donde los guiados por estas variables destacamos las narrativas más importantes pertinente a cada deponente.Conclusión: La experiencia de experimentar un CRM puede traer cambios significativos en los aspectos físico y psicológico duranteel período preoperatorio, el camino de la zona quirúrgica y el postoperatorio inmediato, donde destacamos el miedo, La ansiedad,El temor, La ira, La rebeldía y a veces intolerancia con situaciones vividas.

Objetivo: descrever as histórias de vida (HV) de pacientes submetidos às CRM, desvelando os possíveis dogmas através das suasnarrativas do pré ao pós-operatório imediato em uma UTI cardiológica. Método: pesquisa de campo de abordagem qualitativa pormeio da coleta das HV. Foram iniciadas as entrevistas nas residências dos narradores, guiadas por um roteiro norteador e gravadasem MP3. Após as gravações estas foram transformadas em texto escrito para torná-los disponíveis para a pesquisa. Resultados:Foram entrevistados 08 pacientes, destes selecionamos 05, pois obtivemos o ponto de saturação. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foramcaracterizados de acordo com as variáveis qualitativas: sexo, idade, religião, estado civil, filiação e período operatório, ondeguiados por essas variáveis destacamos as narrativas mais importantes pertinentes de cada depoente. Conclusão: A experiência devivenciar uma CRM pode trazer mudanças significativas nos aspectos físico e psicológico durante o período do pré-operatório, ocaminho do sitio cirúrgico e do pós-operatório imediato, onde destacamos medo, ansiedade, apreensão, raiva, revolta e às vezesintolerância com as situações vivenciadas.

Is There a Possible Association between Dietary Habits and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in the Elderly? The Importance of Diet and Counseling

Introduction Poor diet habits and inadequate intake of nutrients are a concern in the elderly. Nutritional education with guidance may improve the results of the treatment of vertigo. Objective Evaluate the presence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) associated with feeding habits. Methods Cross-sectional study with elderly people living independently.We evaluated nutritional habits through themethod of dietary 24-hour recall andmanipulation of Dix-Hallpike. Results Based on a sample of 487 individuals, 117 had BPPV. Among the 117 elderly patients with BPPV, 37 (31.62%) had inadequate feeding. From those 370 individuals without BPPV, 97 (26.21%) had inappropriate feeding. No significant association between nutritional habits and BPPV in the total population was observed (p = 0.3064). However, there was significant relation between BPPV and inadequate carbohydrate intake (p = 0.0419) and insufficient fiber intake (p = 0.03), and the diet of these subjects was rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.0084). Conclusion These data correlate with the dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia status, making it extremely important to reduce the intake of fats and carbohydrates and increase the fiber intake to stabilize triglycerides and thus minimize harmful effects on the inner ear. Food readjustment is suggested in patients with BPPV, along with the work of a multidisciplinary team to improve the quality of the elderly.(AU)

Is There a Possible Association between Dietary Habits and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in the Elderly? The Importance of Diet and Counseling.

Introduction Poor diet habits and inadequate intake of nutrients are a concern in the elderly. Nutritional education with guidance may improve the results of the treatment of vertigo. Objective Evaluate the presence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) associated with feeding habits. Methods Cross-sectional study with elderly people living independently. We evaluated nutritional habits through the method of dietary 24-hour recall and manipulation of Dix-Hallpike. Results Based on a sample of 487 individuals, 117 had BPPV. Among the 117 elderly patients with BPPV, 37 (31.62%) had inadequate feeding. From those 370 individuals without BPPV, 97 (26.21%) had inappropriate feeding. No significant association between nutritional habits and BPPV in the total population was observed (p = 0.3064). However, there was significant relation between BPPV and inadequate carbohydrate intake (p = 0.0419) and insufficient fiber intake (p = 0.03), and the diet of these subjects was rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.0084). Conclusion These data correlate with the dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia status, making it extremely important to reduce the intake of fats and carbohydrates and increase the fiber intake to stabilize triglycerides and thus minimize harmful effects on the inner ear. Food readjustment is suggested in patients with BPPV, along with the work of a multidisciplinary team to improve the quality of the elderly.

Influência do tratamento com fármacos antivertiginosos sobre o equilíbrio postural e qualidade de vida de indivíduos com queixas de tontura / Influence of antivertigo drugs on postural balance and health-related quality of life of individuals with dizziness complaints

Resumo:OBJETIVO:avaliar a influência do tratamento com fármacos antivertiginosos sobre a qualidade de vida e o equilíbrio postural de adultos e idosos com queixas de tontura.MÉTODOS:estudo transversal, com amostra de 51 indivíduos portadores de queixas de tontura, divididos em dois grupos, de acordo com o uso (grupo medicado, n=25) ou não (grupo não medicado, n=26) de fármacos antivertiginosos. Foram coletadas informações sobre: caracterização dos sintomas (ficha elaborada pelos pesquisadores), autopercepção de qualidade de vida (Dizziness Handicap Inventory),intensidade de tontura (escala visual analógica de tontura) e equilíbrio postural (plataforma de força).RESULTADOS:verificou-se intensidade moderada de tontura (Média: 4,6 ± 2,8) e impacto negativo das vestibulopatias sobre a qualidade de vida (Média: 47,3 ± 22,4) na amostra total. Quando comparados os dois grupos, não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na intensidade da tontura (p=0,74) ou qualidade de vida (p=0,79), e também, nos parâmetros da estabilometria, em quatro tarefas (teste t independente, p>0,05). Contudo, após a inclusão do tempo de utilização de fármacos antivertiginosos como uma covariável do estudo, foi verificado pior desempenho nas diferentes tarefas da estabilometria no grupo medicado (ANCOVA, p<0,05).CONCLUSÃO:o uso de fármacos antivertiginosos não melhora a qualidade de vida de indivíduos com queixas de tontura e o equilíbrio postural esteve alterado no grupo medicado.

Abstract:PURPOSE:this study aimed to identify the influence of anti-vertigo drugs on the health-related quality of life and balance in adults and elder individuals with dizziness complaints.METHODS:51 individuals with dizziness complaints were enrolled at this cross-sectional study. The sample was divided into two groups according to chronic use of antivertigo drugs (medicated group, n=25 or non-medicated group, n=26). Information regarding vertigo-related symptoms, health-related quality of life (through Dizziness Handicap Inventory), dizziness intensity (measured by dizziness visual analogue scale) and postural balance (using a force platform) were assessed in all subjects recruited.RESULTS:a moderate intensity of dizziness was observed (Mean: 4.6 ± 2.8) as well as negative impact on health-related quality of life (Mean: 47.3 ± 22.4) at this sample. When medicated and non-medicated groups were compared, no statistically differences were observed concerning dizziness intensity (p=0.74) and health-related quality of life (p=0.79). Similar results were observed regarding balance parameters (Unpaired t test, p > 0.05). However, after including the time duration of antivertigo drugs' use as a covariable of this study, a worse balance in different balance tasks was observed at the medicated group (ANCOVA, p<0.05).CONCLUSION:no benefits concerning the symptoms or health-related quality of life were observed after chronic treatment with anti-vertigo drugs. On the other hand, worse balance control was observed in medicated group.

Effectiveness of a vestibular rehabilitation protocol to improve the health-related quality of life and postural balance in patients with vertigo

Introduction Dizziness can be characterized as a balance disorder that causes discomfort, leading to several functional limitations. Currently, vestibular rehabilitation has been highlighted as a possible treatment. Objective Analyze the effects of completing a vestibular rehabilitation treatment protocol on quality of life and postural balance in patients with vestibular complaints, as well as to compare these effects between the patients taking or not taking antivertigo drugs. Methods A nonrandomized controlled trial was performed with 20 patients previously diagnosed with vestibular diseases. Information regarding vertigo symptoms, quality of life as assessed through the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, visual analog scale of dizziness, and stabilometry using force platform was collected. Patients were treated for 12 weeks by a customprotocol. The sample was divided into two groups according to the use (medicated group, n = 9) or not (control group, n = 11) of antivertigo drugs. Results There was improvement in quality of life (p < 0.001) and intensity of dizziness (p = 0.003) with the intervention. An improvement of postural balance was observed through functional tests. However, no statistically significant difference was noted in stabilometry. When both groups were compared, no statistically significant differences between the variations of the variables analyzed were found in the re-evaluation session. Conclusion Quality of life and postural balance are improved with intervention. However, this improvement is not associated with pharmacologic treatment.