Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk modulates inflammation and gut microbiota to alleviate acute colitis.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis CIDCA 133 is a health-promoting bacterium that can alleviate gut inflammation and improve the epithelial barrier in a mouse model of mucositis. Despite these beneficial effects, the protective potential of this strain in other inflammation models, such as inflammatory bowel disease, remains unexplored. Herein, we examined for the first time the efficacy of Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 incorporated into a fermented milk formulation in the recovery of inflammation, epithelial damage, and restoration of gut microbiota in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. Oral administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk relieved colitis by decreasing levels of inflammatory factors (myeloperoxidase, N-acetyl-ß-D-glucosaminidase, toll-like receptor 2, nuclear factor-κB, interleukins 10 and 6, and tumor necrosis factor), secretory immunoglobulin A levels, and intestinal paracellular permeability. This immunobiotic also modulated the expression of tight junction proteins (zonulin and occludin) and the activation of short-chain fatty acids-related receptors (G-protein coupled receptors 43 and 109A). Colonic protection was effectively associated with acetate production and restoration of gut microbiota composition. Treatment with Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk increased the abundance of Firmicutes members (Lactobacillus genus) while decreasing the abundance of Proteobacteria (Helicobacter genus) and Bacteroidetes members (Bacteroides genus). These promising outcomes influenced the mice's mucosal healing, colon length, body weight, and disease activity index, demonstrating that this immunobiotic could be explored as an alternative approach for managing inflammatory bowel disease.

Recombinant probiotic Lactococcus lactis delivering P62 mitigates moderate colitis in mice.

Introduction and objective: p62 is a human multifunctional adaptor protein involved in key cellular processes such as tissue homeostasis, inflammation, and cancer. It acts as a negative regulator of inflammasome complexes. It may thus be considered a good candidate for therapeutic use in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as colitis. Probiotics, including recombinant probiotic strains producing or delivering therapeutic biomolecules to the host mucosal surfaces, could help prevent and mitigate chronic intestinal inflammation. The objective of the present study was to combine the intrinsic immunomodulatory properties of the probiotic Lactococcus lactis NCDO2118 with its ability to deliver health-promoting molecules to enhance its protective and preventive effects in the context of ulcerative colitis (UC). Material and methods: This study was realized in vivo in which mice were supplemented with the recombinant strain. The intestinal barrier function was analyzed by monitoring permeability, secretory IgA total levels, mucin expression, and tight junction genes. Its integrity was evaluated by histological analyses. Regarding inflammation, colonic cytokine levels, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and expression of key genes were monitored. The intestinal microbiota composition was investigated using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing. Results and discussion: No protective effect of L. lactis NCDO2118 pExu:p62 was observed regarding mice clinical parameters compared to the L. lactis NCDO2118 pExu: empty. However, the recombinant strain, expressing p62, increased the goblet cell counts, upregulated Muc2 gene expression in the colon, and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines Tnf and Ifng when compared to L. lactis NCDO2118 pExu: empty and inflamed groups. This recombinant strain also decreased colonic MPO activity. No difference in the intestinal microbiota was observed between all treatments. Altogether, our results show that recombinant L. lactis NCDO2118 delivering p62 protein protected the intestinal mucosa and mitigated inflammatory damages caused by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). We thus suggest that p62 may constitute part of a therapeutic approach targeting inflammation.

Fasciotomia em membro superior após síndrome compartimental por acidente ofídico com posterior enxertia e plástica em Z: relato de caso / Fasciotomy in the upper limb after compartment syndrome due to snakebite with subsequent grafting and z-plasty: case report

Este relato de caso aborda o curso clínico de um envenenamento botrópico ocorrido no município de Jarinu, SP, no ano de 2021. O paciente necessitou de fasciotomia em membro superior após síndrome compartimental aguda com enxertia dermoepidérmica em um segundo momento cirúrgico. No pós-operatório tardio, o paciente evoluiu com retração, necessitando de reabordagem cirúrgica com correção de retração de membro superior esquerdo. Discute-se a gravidade do acidente ofídico, efeitos do veneno nos tecidos, complicações, síndrome compartimental aguda, indicação e técnica da fasciotomia descompressiva com base na literatura.

This case study examines the clinical course of a Bothrops snakebite poisoning that occurred in Jarinu, São Paulo, Brazil, in 2021. The patient required a fasciotomy in the upper limb due to acute compartment syndrome, followed by a second surgical procedure involving dermo-epidermal grafting. In the late postoperative period, the patient experienced retraction, leading to a subsequent surgical intervention to correct the retraction in the left upper limb. The severity of the snakebite accident, the effects of venom on tissues, complications, acute compartment syndrome, as well as the indications and techniques for decompressive fasciotomy, are discussed based on the available literature.

Metagenomic analysis reveals novel dietary-related viruses in the gut virome of marmosets hybrids (Callithrix jacchus x Callithrix penicillata), Brazil.

Viral metagenomics has contributed enormously to the characterization of a wide range of viruses infecting animals of all phyla in the last decades. Among Neotropical primates, especially those introduced, knowledge about viral diversity remains poorly studied. Therefore, using metagenomics based on virus enrichment, we explored the viral microbiota present in the feces of introduced common marmosets (Callithrix sp.) in three locations from the Silva Jardim region in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Fecal samples were collected from nine marmosets, pooled into three sample pools, and sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. Sequence reads were analyzed using a viral metagenomic analysis pipeline and two novel insect viruses belonging to the Parvoviridae and Baculoviridae families were identified. The complete genome of a densovirus (Parvoviridae family) of 5,309 nucleotides (nt) was obtained. The NS1 and VP1 proteins share lower than 32% sequence identity with the corresponding proteins of known members of the subfamily Densovirinae. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that this virus represents a new genus, provisionally named Afoambidensovirus due to its discovery in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The novel species received the name Afoambidensovirus incertum 1. The complete circular genome of a baculovirus of 107,191 nt was also obtained, showing 60.8% sequence identity with the most closely related member of the Baculoviridae family. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that this virus represents a new species in the Betabaculovirus genus, provisionally named Betabaculovirus incertum 1. In addition, sequences from several families of arthropods in the three pools evaluated were characterized (contigs ranging from 244 to 6,750 nt), corroborating the presence of possible insect hosts with which these new viruses may be associated. Our study expands the knowledge about two viral families known to infect insects, an important component of the marmosets' diet. This identification in hosts' feces samples demonstrates one of the many uses of this type of data and could serve as a basis for future research characterizing viruses in wildlife using noninvasive samples.

Discovery of two novel Torque Teno viruses in Callithrix penicillata provides insights on Anelloviridae diversification dynamics.

The development of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies and metagenomics protocols deeply impacted the discovery of viral diversity. Moreover, the characterization of novel viruses in the Neotropical primates (NP) is central for the comprehension of viral evolution dynamics in those hosts, due to their evolutionary proximity to Old World primates, including humans. In the present work, novel anelloviruses were detected and characterized through HTS protocols in the NP Callithrix penicillata, the common black-tufted marmoset. De novo assembly of generated sequences was carried out, and a total of 15 contigs were identified with complete Anelloviridae ORF1 gene, two of them including a flanking GC-rich region, confirming the presence of two whole novel genomes of ~3 kb. The identified viruses were monophyletic within the Epsilontorquevirus genus, a lineage harboring previously reported anelloviruses infecting hosts from the Cebidae family. The genetic divergence found in the new viruses characterized two novel species, named Epsilontorquevirus callithrichensis I and II. The phylogenetic pattern inferred for the Epsilontorquevirus genus was consistent with the topology of their host species tree, echoing a virus-host diversification model observed in other viral groups. This study expands the host span of Anelloviridae and provides insights into their diversification dynamics, highlighting the importance of sampling animal viral genomes to obtain a clearer depiction of their long-term evolutionary processes.

Subacute multisystemic toxoplasmosis in a captive black-and-gold howler monkey (Alouatta caraya) indicates therapy challenging.

A 10-year-old black howler monkey presented with a 36-day subacute clinicopathological picture of fever, prostration, inappetence, intestinal hypomotility, and emaciation. Therapy was trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with streptomycin. The liver, lungs, lymph nodes, and spleen presented lesions. Toxoplasma gondii isolation and PCR determined the diagnosis, and indirect fluorescent antibody tests confirmed an increase in antibody titers.

Identification and characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 and Human alphaherpesvirus 1 from a productive coinfection in a fatal COVID-19 case.

BACKGROUND: During routine Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis, an unusually high viral load was detected by reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in a nasopharyngeal swab sample collected from a patient with respiratory and neurological symptoms who rapidly succumbed to the disease. Therefore we sought to characterise the infection. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to determine and characterise the etiological agent responsible for the poor outcome. METHODS: Classical virological methods, such as plaque assay and plaque reduction neutralisation test combined with amplicon-based sequencing, as well as a viral metagenomic approach, were performed to characterise the etiological agents of the infection. FINDINGS: Plaque assay revealed two distinct plaque phenotypes, suggesting either the presence of two severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains or a productive coinfection of two different species of virus. Amplicon-based sequencing did not support the presence of any SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants that would explain the high viral load and suggested the presence of a single SARS-CoV-2 strain. Nonetheless, the viral metagenomic analysis revealed that Coronaviridae and Herpesviridae were the predominant virus families within the sample. This finding was confirmed by a plaque reduction neutralisation test and PCR. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: We characterised a productive coinfection of SARS-CoV-2 and Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in a patient with severe symptoms that succumbed to the disease. Although we cannot establish the causal relationship between the coinfection and the severity of the clinical case, this work serves as a warning for future studies focused on the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-1 coinfection and COVID-19 severity.

Analysis of the association between exercise induced bronchospasm, cardiorespiratory fitness, and physical activity levels of adolescents / Análise da relação entre broncoespasmo induzido por exercício, aptidão cardiorrespiratória e nível de atividade física de adolescentes / Análisis de la relación entre el broncoespasmo inducido por el ejercicio, la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria y el nivel de actividad física entre adolescentes

ABSTRACT This study aims to verify the association between exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB), cardiorespiratory fitness, and physical activity levels in adolescents. To do so, we evaluated 202 healthy adolescents aged from 13 to 18 years, out of which 94 (46.5%) were females and 108 (53.5%) males. Participants performed a bronchial challenge test in a treadmill (Master Super ATL, Inbramed®) to evaluate bronchial hyper-responsiveness; a spirometric test (Microquark, Cosmed®) to evaluate lung function; answered the Baecke's Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity; and performed the progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run test. Data were analyzed using Spearman's correlation, chi-square test, and odds ratio. The significance level adopted was p<0.05. No statistically significant correlations were found between the decrease of the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), cardiorespiratory fitness, and physical activity levels. Likewise, the chi-squared test revealed no significant differences between classifications of cardiorespiratory fitness (low or adequate) and EIB (presence or absence) (χ2=0.155; p=0.694). Finally, odds ratio showed no increased chances of the presence of EIB in participants who presented low cardiorespiratory fitness (OR=1.130; CI: 0.616-2.073). We concluded that cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity levels are not associated with the decrease of FEV1 and that there is no relation between the presence of EIB and the classification of cardiorespiratory fitness of adolescents.

RESUMO Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar a associação entre o broncoespasmo induzido pelo exercício (BIE), a aptidão cardiorrespiratória e o nível de atividade física de adolescentes. Para tanto, participaram do estudo 202 adolescentes saudáveis com idades entre 13 e 18 anos, sendo 94 (46,5%) do sexo feminino e 108 (53,5%) do sexo masculino. Os participantes realizaram um teste de broncoprovocação em esteira ergométrica e um teste espirométrico, além de responderem a um questionário de nível de atividade física (Baecke's Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity) e realizarem um teste de aptidão cardiorrespiratória (progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run test). Os dados foram analisados por meio da correlação de Spearman, teste qui-quadrado e cálculo de razão de chances (odds ratio). O nível de significância adotado foi p<0,05. Não foram encontradas correlações significativas entre a queda do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1), a aptidão cardiorrespiratória e o nível de atividade física dos adolescentes. Da mesma maneira, o teste qui-quadrado não revelou diferenças significativas entre as classificações da aptidão cardiorrespiratória (baixa ou adequada) e o BIE (presença ou ausência) (χ2=0,155; p=0,694). Por fim, a análise de razão de chance não demonstrou maiores chances de se verificar a presença de BIE nos participantes que apresentaram baixa aptidão cardiorrespiratória (OR=1,130; IC: 0,616-2,073). Conclui-se que a aptidão cardiorrespiratória e o nível de atividade física não estão associados com a queda do VEF1, e que não há relação entre a presença de BIE com a classificação da aptidão cardiorrespiratória de adolescentes.

RESUMEN Este estudio tuvo como objetivo verificar la asociación entre el broncoespasmo inducido por el ejercicio (BIE), la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria y el nivel de actividad física entre adolescentes. Para ello, participaron en el estudio 202 adolescentes sanos de entre 13 y 18 años, de los cuales 94 (46,5%) son mujeres y 108 (53,5%) hombres. Los participantes realizaron una prueba de provocación bronquial en cinta rodante (Master Super ATL, Inbramed®) y una prueba espirométrica (Microquark, Cosmed®), respondieron un cuestionario de nivel de actividad física (Baecke's Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity) y realizaron una prueba de aptitud cardiorrespiratoria (progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run test). Los datos se analizaron mediante la correlación de Spearman, la prueba de chi-cuadrado y la razón de probabilidades (odds ratio). El nivel de significancia adoptado p<0,05. No se encontraron correlaciones significativas entre la caída del volumen espiratorio forzado en un segundo (VEF1), la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria y el nivel de actividad física de los adolescentes. Asimismo, la prueba de Chi-Cuadrado no reveló diferencias significativas entre las clasificaciones de capacidad cardiorrespiratoria (baja o adecuada) y la BIE (presencia o ausencia) (χ2=0,155; p=0,694). Finalmente, el análisis de la razón de posibilidades no mostró mayores posibilidades de presencia de EIB en participantes que tenían baja capacidad cardiorrespiratoria (OR=1,130; IC: 0,616-2,073). Se concluye que la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria y el nivel de actividad física no se asocian con una caída del VEF1 y que no existe relación entre la presencia de BIE y la clasificación de capacidad cardiorrespiratoria de los adolescentes.

Epidemiological dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 VOC Gamma in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The emergence and widespread circulation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variants of concern (VOCs) or interest impose an enhanced threat to global public health. In Brazil, one of the countries most severely impacted throughout the pandemic, a complex dynamics involving variants co-circulation and turnover events has been recorded with the emergence and spread of VOC Gamma in Manaus in late 2020. In this context, we present a genomic epidemiology investigation based on samples collected between December 2020 and May 2021 in the second major Brazilian metropolis, Rio de Janeiro. By sequencing 244 novel genomes through all epidemiological weeks in this period, we were able to document the introduction and rapid dissemination of VOC Gamma in the city, driving the rise of the third local epidemic wave. Molecular clock analysis indicates that this variant has circulated locally since the first weeks of 2021 and only 7 weeks were necessary for it to achieve a frequency above 70 per cent, consistent with rates of growth observed in Manaus and other states. Moreover, a Bayesian phylogeographic reconstruction indicates that VOC Gamma spread throughout Brazil between December 2020 and January 2021 and that it was introduced in Rio de Janeiro through at least 13 events coming from nearly all regions of the country. Comparative analysis of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) cycle threshold (Ct) values provides further evidence that VOC Gamma induces higher viral loads (N1 target; mean reduction of Ct: 2.7, 95 per cent confidence interval = ± 0.7). This analysis corroborates the previously proposed mechanistic basis for this variant-enhanced transmissibility and distinguished epidemiological behavior. Our results document the evolution of VOC Gamma and provide independent assessment of scenarios previously studied in Manaus, therefore contributing to the better understanding of the epidemiological dynamics currently being surveyed in other Brazilian regions.

Impact of climate variability on exercise-induced bronchospasm in adolescents living in a semi-arid region.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the impact of climate variability on the occurrence of exercise-induced bronchospasm in the rainy and dry seasons of a Brazilian semi-arid region. METHODS: This sample comprised 82 adolescents aged 15 to 18 years, who were submitted to exercise-induced bronchospasm assessment on a treadmill and outdoors, during the rainy and the dry season. Anthropometric variables, sexual maturity and forced expiratory volume in the first second were analyzed. Air temperature and humidity, decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) and frequency of bronchospasm were compared between seasons using the independent Student's t test, the Wilcoxon and McNemar tests, respectively. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. RESULTS: The mean age was 15.65±0.82 years. Air temperature, air humidity and decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) differed between seasons, with higher air temperature and humidity in the rainy season (29.6ºC±0.1 and 70.8%±0.6 versus 28.5ºC±0.2 and 48.5%±0.6; p<0.05). The decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) was greater in the dry season (9.43%±9.97 versus 12.94%±15.65; p<0.05). The frequency of bronchospasm did not differ between seasons. CONCLUSION: The dry season had a negative impact on forced expiratory volume in the first second in adolescents, with greater decrease detected during this period. Findings of this study suggested bronchospasm tends to be more severe under low humidity conditions.

Epidemiological dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 VOC Gamma in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The emergence and widespread circulation of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) or interest (VOI) imposes an enhanced threat to global public health. In Brazil, one of the countries most severely impacted throughout the pandemic, a complex dynamics involving variants co-circulation and turnover events has been recorded with the emergence and spread of VOC Gamma in Manaus in late 2020. In this context, we present a genomic epidemiology investigation based on samples collected between December 2020 and May 2021 in the second major Brazilian metropolis, Rio de Janeiro. By sequencing 244 novel genomes through all epidemiological weeks in this period, we were able to document the introduction and rapid dissemination of VOC Gamma in the city, driving the rise of the third local epidemic wave. Molecular clock analysis indicates this variant has circulated locally since the first weeks of 2021 and only seven weeks were necessary for it to achieve a frequency above 70%, consistent with rates of growth observed in Manaus and other states. Moreover, a Bayesian phylogeographic reconstruction indicates VOC Gamma spread throughout Brazil between December 2020 and January 2021, and that it was introduced in Rio de Janeiro through at least 13 events coming from nearly all regions of the country. Comparative analysis of RT-qPCR cycle threshold (Ct) values provides further evidence that VOC Gamma induces higher viral loads (N1 target; mean reduction of Ct: 2.7, 95% CI = {+/-}0.7). This analysis corroborates the previously proposed mechanistic basis for this variant enhanced transmissibility and distinguished epidemiological behavior. Our results document the evolution of VOC Gamma and provide independent assessment of scenarios previously studied in Manaus, therefore contributing to the better understanding of the epidemiological dynamics currently being surveyed in other Brazilian regions.

What is the physical-mechanical mechanism of pressurized mesotherapy?

The skin is the largest organ in the human body and has a variable structure. It is divided into three layers: epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. Amid aesthetics, this structure works as a systemic administration port or as a route to administration of active principles. Invasive procedures, however, non-surgical, have been standing out and gaining space globally, as these are techniques that do not bring a significant risk of life or prolonged rest after treatment. The aim of this work is to raise the hypothesis of the effect of pressurized mesotherapy in relation to injectable mesotherapy. The method does not use needles; just pressurization to spread the product's principles in the skin tissue. Assets applied under pressure associated with the minimization of mechanical resistance by distending the elastic components of the skin with the use of skin folds have a better effect on aesthetic dysfunctions.

Novel Hg (II) selective fluorescent green sensor based on carbon dots synthesized from starch and functionalized with methimazole.

We describe a green new method for the synthesis of water-soluble photoluminescent carbon dots (CDs) that were functionalized with methimazole (MTZ) and applied to determine Hg2+ based on the fluorescence extinction. Starch obtained from rice was used as a natural source for the production of CDs by hydrothermal treatment. Also, it was proposed a factorial design to optimize the parameters for CD synthesis and the results showed that the luminescence intensity is a function of temperature and not of the heating time in the hydrothermal process. The synthesized CDs were characterized using fluorescence techniques, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS), it was found the formation of CDs on a nanometer scale with an average size of 11 nm. The functionalization with MTZ, eliminated all interferences from other metals, indicating a selective response to Hg2+ ions. The method was applied to Hg2+ determination in waters. Under optimal conditions, was obtained a limit of detection of 1.8 × 10-7 mol L-1 with a linear range from 3.3 × 10-7 to 50.0 × 10-6 mol L-1. Therefore, the proposed method can be considered a simple, selective, and precise alternative that minimizes the number of reagents used for Hg2+ determination in natural waters, and can be applied on a large scale in environmental analyzes.

Identification and characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 and Human alphaherpesvirus 1 from a productive coinfection in a fatal COVID-19 case

BACKGROUND During routine Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis, an unusually high viral load was detected by reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in a nasopharyngeal swab sample collected from a patient with respiratory and neurological symptoms who rapidly succumbed to the disease. Therefore we sought to characterise the infection. OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine and characterise the etiological agent responsible for the poor outcome. METHODS Classical virological methods, such as plaque assay and plaque reduction neutralisation test combined with amplicon-based sequencing, as well as a viral metagenomic approach, were performed to characterise the etiological agents of the infection. FINDINGS Plaque assay revealed two distinct plaque phenotypes, suggesting either the presence of two severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains or a productive coinfection of two different species of virus. Amplicon-based sequencing did not support the presence of any SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants that would explain the high viral load and suggested the presence of a single SARS-CoV-2 strain. Nonetheless, the viral metagenomic analysis revealed that Coronaviridae and Herpesviridae were the predominant virus families within the sample. This finding was confirmed by a plaque reduction neutralisation test and PCR. MAIN CONCLUSIONS We characterised a productive coinfection of SARS-CoV-2 and Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in a patient with severe symptoms that succumbed to the disease. Although we cannot establish the causal relationship between the coinfection and the severity of the clinical case, this work serves as a warning for future studies focused on the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-1 coinfection and COVID-19 severity.

Impact of climate variability on exercise-induced bronchospasm in adolescents living in a semi-arid region / Influência de alterações climáticas sobre a ocorrência do broncoespasmo induzido por exercício em adolescentes de uma região semiárida

ABSTRACT Objective: To examine the impact of climate variability on the occurrence of exercise-induced bronchospasm in the rainy and dry seasons of a Brazilian semi-arid region. Methods: This sample comprised 82 adolescents aged 15 to 18 years, who were submitted to exercise-induced bronchospasm assessment on a treadmill and outdoors, during the rainy and the dry season. Anthropometric variables, sexual maturity and forced expiratory volume in the first second were analyzed. Air temperature and humidity, decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) and frequency of bronchospasm were compared between seasons using the independent Student's t test, the Wilcoxon and McNemar tests, respectively. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age was 15.65±0.82 years. Air temperature, air humidity and decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) differed between seasons, with higher air temperature and humidity in the rainy season (29.6ºC±0.1 and 70.8%±0.6 versus 28.5ºC±0.2 and 48.5%±0.6; p<0.05). The decline in forced expiratory volume in the first second (%) was greater in the dry season (9.43%±9.97 versus 12.94%±15.65; p<0.05). The frequency of bronchospasm did not differ between seasons. Conclusion: The dry season had a negative impact on forced expiratory volume in the first second in adolescents, with greater decrease detected during this period. Findings of this study suggested bronchospasm tends to be more severe under low humidity conditions.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a influência das alterações climáticas sobre o broncoespasmo induzido por exercício, nos períodos chuvoso e seco de uma região do semiárido brasileiro. Métodos: Foram submetidos à avaliação do broncoespasmo em esteira ergométrica, em ambiente externo, nos períodos chuvoso e seco, 82 adolescentes, com idades de 15 a 18 anos. Foram avaliadas as variáveis antropométricas, a maturação sexual e o volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo. Para comparação da temperatura e umidade, queda do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (%) e frequência do broncoespasmo entre os períodos, foram utilizados o teste t de Student independente, o teste de Wilcoxon e o teste de McNemar, respectivamente. O nível de significância adotado foi p<0,05. Resultados: A média de idade foi 15,65±0,82 anos. A temperatura, a umidade e a queda do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (%) diferiram entre os períodos, com valores de temperatura e umidade maiores no período chuvoso (29,6ºC±0,1 e 70,8%±0,6 versus 28,5ºC±0,2 e 48,4%±0,6; p<0,05). A queda do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (%) foi maior no período seco (9,43%±9,97 versus 12,94%±15,65; p<0,05), e não foi encontrada diferença da frequência do broncoespasmo entre os períodos. Conclusão: O período seco influenciou negativamente no volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo de adolescentes, observando maior percentual de queda dessa variável nesse período. De acordo com os achados, propõe-se uma maior gravidade do broncoespasmo induzido por exercício em condições de baixa umidade.

Representações sociais de "pobreza" e "bolsa família" para mulheres beneficiárias de programas de transferência de renda / Social representations of "poverty" and "bolsa família" for women beneficiary from income transfer programs / Representaciones sociales de "pobreza" y "bolsa família" para mujeres beneficiarias de los programas de transferencia de ingresos

A presente pesquisa objetivou identificar as representações sociais da pobreza e do bolsa família para mulheres beneficiárias de programas de transferência de renda de um município do Sul de Santa Catarina. Participaram deste estudo 26 mulheres, selecionadas por amostragem por conveniência. Fez-se uso do teste de associação livre como instrumento de coleta de dados. As participantes escreveram as cinco primeiras palavras que surgiam à mente a partir do termo indutor "pobreza" e "bolsa família". Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de similitude e prototípica por meio do software IRaMuTeQ. Quanto ao termo indutor pobreza aparece como possível elemento central a palavra "fome", seguida dos elementos "miséria", "dificuldade" e "tristeza"; mostrando que a multidimensionalidade da pobreza e os efeitos simbólicos não estão necessariamente atrelados ao capital monetário. No que se refere ao termo indutor "Bolsa Família", o possível núcleo central é o elemento "ajuda" seguido dos elementos "benefício", "importante", "comprar", "escola", "água", "comida", "renda" e "assistência". Tais aspectos de representação demonstram a perspectiva assistencialista das beneficiárias acerca do Programa. Os resultados apontam que programas de transferência de renda têm pautado suas estratégias de enfrentamento a pobreza em políticas unidimensionais, que priorizam o valor monetário em detrimento de garantias sociais. Além disso, salienta-se que apesar de necessários para garantir condições mínimas de dignidade para a população, os programas de transferência de renda têm baixo potencial de mudança na estrutura social, tendo em conta, o valor monetário oferecido aos beneficiários.(AU)

The present research aimed to identify the social representations of poverty and the family allowance for women beneficiaries of income transfer programs in a municipality in the south of Santa Catarina. 26 women participated in this study, selected by sampling by convenience. The free association test was used as a data collection instrument. The participants wrote the first five words that came to mind from the inducing term "poverty" and "family allowance". The results were submitted to similitude and prototypical analysis using the IRaMuTeQ software. As for the term inducer poverty, the word "hunger" appears as a possible central element, followed by the element's "misery", "difficulty" and "sadness"; showing that the multidimensional of poverty and the symbolic effects that are not necessarily linked to monetary capital. Regarding the inductive term "Bolsa Família", the possible central nucleus is the element "help" followed by the element's "benefit", "important", "buy", "school", "water", "food", "income" and "assistance". Such representation demonstrates the beneficiaries' assistance perspective regarding the Program. The results point out that income transfer programs have guided their strategies to face poverty in one-dimensional policies, which prioritize monetary value over social guarantees. In addition, it should be noted that although necessary to guarantee minimum conditions of dignity for the population, income transfer programs have little potential for changing social structures, taking into account the low monetary value offered to beneficiaries.(AU)

Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar las representaciones sociales de la pobreza y la Bolsa Familia para las mujeres beneficiarias de los programas de transferencia de ingresos en un municipio en el sur de Santa Catarina. 26 mujeres participaron en este estudio, seleccionadas por muestreo por conveniencia. La prueba de asociación libre se utilizó como instrumento de recopilación de datos. Los participantes escribieron las primeras cinco palabras que surgieron del término inductor "pobreza" y "subsidio familiar". Los resultados se sometieron a análisis de similitud y prototipos utilizando el software IRaMuTeQ. En cuanto al término inductor de pobreza, la palabra "hambre" aparece como un posible elemento central, seguido de los elementos "miseria", "dificultad" y "tristeza"; mostrando que la multidimensionalidad de la pobreza y los efectos simbólicos que no están necesariamente vinculados al capital monetario. En cuanto al término inductivo "Bolsa Família", el posible núcleo central es el elemento "ayuda" seguido de los elementos "beneficio", "importante", "comprar", "escuela", "agua", "comida", " ingresos "y" asistencia ". Dicha representación demuestra la perspectiva de asistencia de los beneficiarios con respecto al Programa. Los resultados señalan que los programas de transferencia de ingresos han guiado sus estrategias para enfrentar la pobreza en políticas unidimensionales, que priorizan el valor monetario sobre las garantías sociales. Además, debe tenerse en cuenta que, aunque es necesario para garantizar condiciones mínimas de dignidad para la población, los programas de transferencia de ingresos tienen poco potencial para cambiar las estructuras sociales, teniendo en cuenta el bajo valor monetario ofrecido a los beneficiarios.(AU)

Representações Sociais do envelhecimento para mulheres que utilizam práticas de rejuvenescimento / Social representations of aging for women who use rejuvenation practices

O envelhecer se trata de um processo do ciclo da vida que caracteriza uma etapa marcada por mudanças físicas, psicológicas e sociais vivenciadas de forma particular em cada indivíduo. Nesse sentido, a Teoria das Representações Sociais se mostra essencial para acessar a perspectiva de diferentes grupos sobre esse fenômeno. O presente estudo buscou caracterizar as representações sociais do envelhecimento e as práticas de rejuvenescimento adotadas por mulheres. As participantes da pesquisa foram 40 mulheres, com idade entre 30 e 60 anos, que residiam na região da Grande Florianópolis. Do total de 40 mulheres, 20 utilizavam pelo menos um dos procedimentos rejuvenescedores não invasivos. As outras 20 mulheres faziam uso de pelo menos um dos procedimentos rejuvenescedores invasivos ou minimamente invasivos. A coleta de dados foi realizada através da técnica de associação de palavras com o termo indutor “envelhecimento”, e um questionário contendo questões de caracterização das participantes e itens sobre as práticas de rejuvenescimento. Com relação ao conteúdo obtido sobre o envelhecimento a partir das evocações livres, ocorreram 200 evocações de 111 palavras diferentes. As palavras evocadas remetem às perdas e ganhos que envolvem o processo de envelhecimento. As representações sociais do envelhecimento apresentam aspectos comuns entre as participantes, e aspectos específicos, demonstrando que as práticas de rejuvenescimento adotadas possuem relação com a compreensão do envelhecimento para as mulheres. Tais dados permitem compreender que às representações sociais impactam na forma como se relacionam com suas aparências.(AU)

Aging is a process of the life cycle that characterizes a stage marked by physical, psychological and social changes experienced in a particular way in each individual. In this sense, the Theory of Social Representations is essential to access the perspective of different groups on this phenomenon. The present study sought to characterize the social representations of aging and the rejuvenation practices adopted by women. The research participants were 40 women, aged between 30 and 60 years old, who lived in the Greater Florianópolis region. Of the total of 40 women, 20 used at least one of the non-invasive rejuvenating procedures. The other 20 women used at least one of the invasive or minimally invasive rejuvenating procedures. Data collection was performed using the word association technique with the inducing term “aging”, and a questionnaire containing questions on the characterization of participants and items on rejuvenation practices. Regarding the content obtained about aging from free evocations, there were 200 evocations of 111 different words. The evoked words refer to the losses and gains that involve the aging process. The social representations of aging present common aspects among the participants, and specific aspects, demonstrating that the rejuvenation practices adopted are related to the understanding of aging for women. Such data allow us to understand that social representations impact the way they relate to their appearances.(AU)

IgM autoantibodies recognizing ACE2 are associated with severe COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2 infection induces severe disease in a subpopulation of patients, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We demonstrate robust IgM autoantibodies that recognize angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) in 18/66 (27%) patients with severe COVID-19, which are rare (2/52; 3.8%) in hospitalized patients who are not ventilated. The antibodies do not undergo class-switching to IgG, suggesting a T-independent antibody response. Purified IgM from anti-ACE2 patients activates complement. Pathological analysis of lung obtained at autopsy shows endothelial cell staining for IgM in blood vessels in some patients. We propose that vascular endothelial ACE2 expression focuses the pathogenic effects of these autoantibodies on blood vessels, and contributes to the angiocentric pathology observed in some severe COVID-19 patients. These findings may have predictive and therapeutic implications. One-sentence summaryACE2 autoantibodies in severe COVID-19 have features of a T-independent immune response, and may mediate vascular damage.

Epidemiological study on Fournier syndrome in a tertiary hospital in Jundiaí-SP from October 2016 to October 2018 / Estudo epidemiológico sobre síndrome de Fournier em um hospital terciario de Jundiaí-SP de Outubro de 2016 a Outubro de 2018

Abstract Introduction: Fournier's gangrene is a polymicrobial infection caused by aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms, which determine a fast and progressive necrotizing fasciitis, compromising mainly the perineal region and the genital region, being able to evolve to sepsis, multiple organ failure and death. Treatment consists of early surgical diagnosis and debridement, associated with broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Objective: Compare the most prevalent epidemiological data of patients with Fournier's Syndrome with the data examined in the literature in order to evaluate the incidence in the analyzed service, treatment form and evolution of the patients with the disease. Materials and methods: Observational transversal study from the medical records of patients diagnosed with the disease at the São Vicente de Paulo Charity Hospital in Jundiaí, SP, from October 2016 to October 2018. Results: 23 patients with Fournier's Syndrome, all included in the study, and were analyzed. The most prevalent epidemiological data on the disease, such as age, sex, association with other comorbidities, treatment performed, mortality and early surgical procedure, had obtained a similar data as compared as the medical literature that was in studied. Conclusion: Despite the recognized severity of Fournier's Syndrome, early diagnosis combined with extensive surgical debridement, broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and measures and oxygen therapy when available are important measures to contain the rapid progression of the disease, thus decreasing its levels of mortality.

Resumo Introdução: A Gangrena de Fournier é uma infecção polimicrobiana ocasionada por microrganismos aeróbios e anaeróbios, que determinam uma fascite necrosante rápida e progressiva, comprometendo principalmente a região do períneo e a região genital, podendo evoluir para sepse, falência de múltiplos órgãos e óbito. O tratamento consiste no diagnóstico e desbridamento cirúrgico precoce, associado à antibioticoterapia de largo espectro e oxigenoterapia hiperbárica. Objetivo: Comparar dados epidemiológicos mais prevalentes dos pacientes diagnosticados com Síndrome de Fournier com os dados já descritos na literatura a fim de avaliar a incidência no serviço em questão analisado, forma de tratamento e evolução dos pacientes com a doença. Materiais e métodos: Estudo transversal observacional a partir da análise de prontuários de pacientes diagnosticados com a doença no Hospital de Caridade São Vicente de Paulo de Jundiaí-SP, no período entre Outubro de 2016 a Outubro de 2018. Resultados: Foram analisados 23 pacientes com diagnóstico de Síndrome de Fournier, todos incluídos na pesquisa. Avaliado os dados epidemiológicos mais prevalentes na doença, como faixa etária, sexo, associação com outras comorbidades, tratamento realizado, mortalidade decorrente da doença, período médio de internação, uso de antibioticoterapia e necessidade de procedimento cirúrgico, obtendo-se dados semelhantes com os já descritos na literatura médica. Conclusão: Apesar da reconhecida gravidade da Síndrome de Fournier, o diagnóstico precoce aliado ao desbridamento cirúrgico extenso, antibioticoterapia de amplo espectro e medidas e oxigenioterapia quando disponível são medidas importantes na contenção da rápida progressão da doença, diminuindo assim seus níveis de mortalidade.

Representações sociais de "minha casa" para idosas / Social representations of "my house" for the aged people / Representaciones sociales de "mi casa" para ancianos

Este estudo objetivou investigar as representações sociais do termo indutivo "minha casa", provenientes de teste de evocações online, enviado a idosas por meio de uma página em uma rede social que divulga informações sobre envelhecimento. Ocorreram 233 evocações, das quais foram selecionadas as de 114 idosas com idades entre 60 e 69 anos por terem atendido à proposta de evocação. Os resultados foram submetidos a uma análise lexicográfica e de similitude por meio dos softwares Evocation 2000 e Similitude 2000. O ambiente físico da casa mostrou-se como importante para a vida das idosas, seja quando estão experimentando afeto positivo ou afeto negativo. A associação de partes físicas da casa com elementos relacionados a restabelecer-se e bem-estar indicam que o meio está agindo como ambiente restaurador. O fato de algumas idosas residirem na mesma casa há mais de 20 anos aliado aos afetos por ela sentidos dão indícios de vínculo de apego ao lugar. Conclui-se que a teoria das representações sociais foi adequada para os estudos do campo pessoa-ambiente, possibilitando atingir o objetivo da pesquisa. (AU)

This study aimed to investigate the social representations of the inductive term "my house", derived from an online evocations test, sent to elderly women through a page on a social network that disseminates information about aging. There were 233 evocations, of which 114 elderly women aged between 60 and 69 years were selected for having met the evocation proposal. The results were subjected to a lexicographic and similitude analysis using the software Evocation 2000 and Similitude 2000. The physical environment of the house proved to be important for the lives of the elderly, whether they are experiencing positive or negative affect. The association of physical parts of the house with elements related to recovery and well-being indicates that the environment is acting as a restorative environment. The fact that some elderly women have lived in the same house for more than 20 years, together with the affections felt by her, give evidence of attachment to the place. It is concluded that the theory of social representations was adequate for studies of the person-environment field, making it possible to achieve the research objective. (AU)

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar las representaciones sociales del término inductivo "mi casa", derivado de una prueba de evocaciones en línea, enviada a mujeres de edad avanzada a través de una página en una red social que difunde información sobre el envejecimiento. Hubo 233 evocaciones, de las cuales 114 mujeres mayores de entre 60 y 69 años fueron seleccionadas por haber cumplido con la propuesta de evocación. Los resultados se sometieron a un análisis lexicográfico y de similitud utilizando el software Evocation 2000 y Similitude 2000. El entorno físico de la casa demostró ser importante para la vida de las personas mayores, ya sea que estén experimentando un efecto positivo o negativo. La asociación de partes físicas de la casa con elementos relacionados con la recuperación y el bienestar indica que el ambiente está actuando como un ambiente restaurador. El hecho de que algunas mujeres de edad avanzada hayan vivido en la misma casa durante más de 20 años, junto con el afecto que siente, evidencian el apego al lugar. Se concluye que la teoría de las representaciones sociales era adecuada para los estudios del campo persona-ambiente, permitiendo alcanzar el objetivo de investigación.