Effect of Green Tea Supplementation on Inflammatory Markers among Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the potential benefits of green tea on the inflammatory process in metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the results are inconclusive and inconsistent. In the present study, we performed a literature review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of green tea supplementation on inflammatory markers [e.g., tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6)] among patients with MetS and related disorders. We systematically searched for relevant publications up to March 2022 in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO databases. The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022320345). Mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were pooled on the basis of the random effects model to compare the effects of green tea with placebo. We used meta-regression and subgroup analyses to determine the cause of heterogeneity and performed study quality assessment using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation method. We assessed publication bias using funnel plots and Egger's tests. Out of the total 15 RCTs that were included in this systematic review, 12 were chosen for the meta-analysis. The results revealed that green tea significantly decreased TNF-α levels but did not affect CRP and IL-6 levels. Subgroup analysis showed that green tea supplementation in studies lasting ≤8 weeks significantly increased CRP levels. Furthermore, meta-regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between increasing IL-6 concentration and treatment duration. According to our meta-analysis, green tea was shown to considerably lower circulating TNF-α levels. To confirm these findings, carefully planned trials are required.

Profile of metacaspase gene expression in Plasmodium vivax field isolates from the Brazilian Amazon.

BACKGROUND: Metacaspases comprise a family of cysteine proteases implicated in both cell death and cell differentiation of protists that has been considered a potential drug target for protozoan parasites. However, the biology of metacaspases in Plasmodium vivax - the second most prevalent and most widespread human malaria parasite worldwide, whose occurrence of chemoresistance has been reported in many endemic countries, remains largely unexplored. Therefore, the present study aimed to address, for the first time, the expression pattern of metacaspases in P. vivax parasites. METHODS AND RESULTS: P. vivax blood-stage parasites were obtained from malaria patients in the Brazilian Amazon and the expression of the three putative P. vivax metacaspases (PvMCA1-3) was detected in all isolates by quantitative PCR assay. Of note, the expression levels of each PvMCA varied noticeably across isolates, which presented different frequencies of parasite forms, supporting that PvMCAs may be expressed in a stage-specific manner as previously shown in P. falciparum. CONCLUSION: The detection of metacaspases in P. vivax blood-stage parasites reported herein, allows the inclusion of these proteases as a potential candidate drug target for vivax malaria, while further investigations are still required to evaluate the activity, role and essentiality of metacaspases in P. vivax biology.

Effect of EGCG-based paste as intracanal dressing, in MMPs 2 and 9 expression in dog's periapical lesions.

High expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions plays an important role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. This study aimed to investigate the effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)-based endodontic paste as an intracanal dressing on the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions. Periapical lesions were experimentally induced in 35 mature beagle dog premolars randomly divided into healthy teeth, untreated periapical lesions, periapical lesions treated in a single session (control groups), and periapical lesions treated in two sessions with EGCG or calcium hydroxide-based pastes (experimental groups). After 120 days, specimens were obtained for histopathologic and immunofluorescence analyses to assess the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. The statistical analysis was performed using a p-value of 0.05. Endodontic treatment in two sessions using medication with EGCG and calcium hydroxide-based pastes provided similar repair of the apical and periapical tissues and neoformation of periodontal ligament fibers, cementum, and alveolar bone (p>0.05). The experimental groups treated in two sessions with both medications presented expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 similar to that in healthy teeth (p>0.05), and significantly lower than teeth treated in a single session or untreated periapical lesions (p <0.001). Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was observed in the cytoplasm of fibroblasts, osteoblasts, cementoblasts, cementocytes, and vascular endothelium. The use of EGCG-based endodontic paste reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and allowed repair of periapical lesions, similar to calcium hydroxide-based paste, and superior to treatment performed in a single session.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sleep quality of students: A meta-analysis and meta-regression.

OBJECTIVE: The present systematic review aims to assess the impact of the COVID19 pandemic on the sleep quality of students. METHODS: An electronic search was performed in the databases and in gray literature for articles published up to January 2022. The results included observational studies that assessed sleep quality through validated questionnaires, comparing moments pre and postCOVID19 pandemic. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklist. The Grading of Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the certainty of scientific evidence. Estimates of interest were calculated using random effects meta-analyses and possible confounding factors were meta-regressed. RESULTS: Eighteen studies were considered for qualitative synthesis and thirteen were considered for meta-analysis. Considering the comparison of means obtained by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, there was an increase in the scores obtained during the pandemic period [MD = -0.39; 95% CI = -0.72 - -0.07; I2 = 88.31%], thus evidencing a slight worsening in the sleep quality of these individuals. Risk of bias was considered low in nine studies, moderate in eight studies, and high in one study. The unemployment rate (%) in the country of origin of each included study partially explained the heterogeneity of analysis. GRADE analysis showed a very low certainty of scientific evidence. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic may have a slight negative impact on the sleep quality of high school and college students, but the evidence is still uncertain. The socioeconomic reality must be considered when evaluating this outcome.

Effect of EGCG-based paste as intracanal dressing, in MMPs 2 and 9 expression in dog's periapical lesions

Abstract High expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions plays an important role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. This study aimed to investigate the effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)-based endodontic paste as an intracanal dressing on the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions. Periapical lesions were experimentally induced in 35 mature beagle dog premolars randomly divided into healthy teeth, untreated periapical lesions, periapical lesions treated in a single session (control groups), and periapical lesions treated in two sessions with EGCG or calcium hydroxide-based pastes (experimental groups). After 120 days, specimens were obtained for histopathologic and immunofluorescence analyses to assess the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. The statistical analysis was performed using a p-value of 0.05. Endodontic treatment in two sessions using medication with EGCG and calcium hydroxide-based pastes provided similar repair of the apical and periapical tissues and neoformation of periodontal ligament fibers, cementum, and alveolar bone (p>0.05). The experimental groups treated in two sessions with both medications presented expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 similar to that in healthy teeth (p>0.05), and significantly lower than teeth treated in a single session or untreated periapical lesions (p <0.001). Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was observed in the cytoplasm of fibroblasts, osteoblasts, cementoblasts, cementocytes, and vascular endothelium. The use of EGCG-based endodontic paste reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and allowed repair of periapical lesions, similar to calcium hydroxide-based paste, and superior to treatment performed in a single session.

Resumo A alta expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 em lesões periapicais desempenha um papel importante na degradação da matriz extracelular. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito de uma pasta à base de epigalocatequina-3-galato (EGCG) como curativo intracanal na expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 em lesões periapicais. Lesões periapicais foram induzidas experimentalmente em 35 pré-molares de cães da raça beagle, maduros, divididos aleatoriamente em dentes saudáveis, lesões periapicais não tratadas, lesões periapicais tratadas em uma única sessão e lesões periapicais tratadas em duas sessões com a pasta de EGCG ou pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio. O operador monitorou os animais e realizou a eutanásia após 120 dias para análises histopatológicas e de imunofluorescência para avaliar a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando p=0,05. O tratamento endodôntico em duas sessões com pasta à base de EGCG e pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio proporcionou níveis semelhantes de reparação dos tecidos apicais e periapicais e neoformação de fibras do ligamento periodontal, cemento e osso alveolar. Em ambos os grupos, a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 foi mínima, sendo observada no citoplasma de fibroblastos, osteoblastos, cementoblastos, cementócitos e endotélio vascular. Em ambos os grupos tratados em duas sessões, a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 foi semelhante à dos dentes hígidos e significativamente menor do que nas lesões periapicais tratadas em sessão única ou não tratadas (p < 0,001). O uso da pasta à base de EGCG reduziu a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 e permitiu o reparo de lesões periapicais, semelhante à pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio, e foi superior ao tratamento realizado em sessão única.

Letramento em saúde e a prática do profissional da enfermagem nos cuidados aos idosos / Health literacy and the practice of nursing professionals in caring for the elderly

Objetivo: descrever a importância do Letramento em Saúde para a prática do profissional da enfermagem nos cuidados aos idosos, com base na literatura recente. Método: revisão da literatura realizada nas bases de dados SCIELO, LILACS e MEDLINE entre fevereiro e maio de 2022 no período de 2015 até 2022. Os artigos selecionados para análise e interpretação tinham como critérios: serem originais, publicados no idioma português, inglês e espanhol, disponibilizados gratuitamente, com abordagem sobre o letramento em saúde em relação ao idoso. Resultados: foi destacado três vertentes: o envelhecimento no Brasil e o impacto na saúde dos idosos, o letramento em saúde e a relação com profissional de saúde e paciente e a população idosa e o acesso à saúde. Conclusão: o Letramento em Saúde é condição fundamental para o sucesso dos tratamentos dos idosos.(AU)

Objective: To describe the importance of Health Literacy for the practice of nursing professionals in caring for the elderly, based on recent literature. Method: Literature review conducted in the SCIELO, LILACS, and MEDLINE databases between February and May 2022, covering the period from 2015 to 2022. The selected articles for analysis and interpretation met the following criteria: being original, published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, freely available, and addressing health literacy in relation to the elderly. Results: Three aspects were highlighted: aging in Brazil and its impact on the health of the elderly, health literacy and its relationship with healthcare professionals and patients, and the elderly population's access to healthcare. Conclusion: Health Literacy is a fundamental condition for the success of treatments for the elderly.(AU)

Objetivo: Describir la importancia del Letramiento en Salud para la práctica de los profesionales de enfermería en la atención a los ancianos, basándose en la literatura reciente. Método: Revisión de la literatura realizada en las bases de datos SCIELO, LILACS y MEDLINE entre febrero y mayo de 2022, abarcando el período desde 2015 hasta 2022. Los artículos seleccionados para el análisis e interpretación debían cumplir con los siguientes criterios: ser originales, publicados en portugués, inglés o español, estar disponibles de forma gratuita y abordar el letramiento en salud en relación con los ancianos. Resultados: Se destacaron tres aspectos: el envejecimiento en Brasil y su impacto en la salud de los ancianos, el letramiento en salud y su relación con los profesionales de la salud y los pacientes, y el acceso de la población anciana a la atención médica. Conclusión: El Letramiento en Salud es una condición fundamental para el éxito de los tratamientos de los ancianos.(AU)

Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in subjects with COVID-19: Characterization and prognosis of the disease.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an acute respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that has spread throughout the world causing millions of deaths. COVID-19 promotes excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines leading to acute lung injury and death. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (OS) may also play a role in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. The present study investigated levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12) and OS biomarkers (MPO, SOD, CAT, GST enzymes and contents of GSH, TBARS and PC) in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, which were correlated with disease severity. Patients with SARS significantly increased IL-1ß levels, while IL-6 levels were elevated in both groups of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients. The most severe patients showed increased levels of IL-8 and IL-10, while subjects without SARS showed lower values. MPO activity were higher in both groups of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, while SOD and CAT activity were decreased in both groups. Compared to controls, GGT was elevated only in the SARS patient group, while GST values were increased in the group of positive patients in SARS-CoV-2 without SARS and were decreased in patients with SARS. GSH and UA contents decreased in SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects, whereas TBARS and PC contents increased in both groups of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, particularly in the SARS patient group. In addition, several important correlations were found between cytokines and the different OS parameters suggesting some inter-relationship in the complex antioxidant system of the patients. In general, patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection showed higher levels of OS biomarkers, and also elevated contents of IL-6 and IL-10, probably worsening the damage caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. This damage may contribute to the severity of the disease and its complications, as well as a prognosis for SARS-CoV-2 patients.

Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide Application on Salt Stress Mitigation in Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.).

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the foliar application of hydrogen peroxide on the attenuation of salt stress on the growth, photochemical efficiency, production and water use efficiency of 'All Big' bell pepper plants. The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions in Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. Treatments were distributed in a randomized block design, in a 5 × 5 factorial scheme, corresponding to five levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water (0.8, 1.2, 2.0, 2.6 and 3.2 dS m-1) and five concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 µM), with three replicates. Foliar application of hydrogen peroxide at concentration of 15 µM attenuated the deleterious effects of salt stress on photochemical efficiency, biomass accumulation and production components of bell pepper plants irrigated using water with an electrical conductivity of up to 3.2 dS m-1. Foliar spraying of hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 60 µM intensified the effects of salt stress. The 'All Big' bell pepper was classified as moderately sensitive to salt stress, with an irrigation water salinity threshold of 1.43 dS m-1 and a unit decrease of 8.25% above this salinity level.

Factors related to the readiness of Brazilian chronic pediatric patients to transition to care in adult clinics

Abstract Objective Advances in medicine have increased the life expectancy of pediatric patients with chronic illnesses, and challenges with the guided transition of adolescents and young adults from pediatric clinics to adult clinics have grown. The aim of this study was to better understand readiness and factors related to this transition process in Brazil. Method In this cross-sectional study of 308 patients aged from 16 to 21 years under follow-up in pediatric specialties, the degree of readiness for transition was assessed using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) and its domains. Associations with demographic data, clinical data, socio-economic level, medication adherence, family functionality, and parental satisfaction with health care were evaluated. Results The median TRAQ score was 3.7 (3.2 - 4.2). Better readiness was associated with female patients, socio-economic class A-B, current active employment, higher level of education, not failing any school year, attending medical appointments alone, functional family, and a good knowledge of disease and medications. A low correlation was observed between TRAQ and age. TRAQ presented good internal consistency (alpha-Cronbach 0.86). In the multiple linear regression, TRAQ score showed a significant association with female gender, advanced age, socio-economic class A-B, better knowledge of disease and medications, and independence to attend appointments alone. Conclusion TRAQ instrument can guide healthcare professionals to identify specific areas of approach, in order to support adolescents with chronic disease to set goals for their own personal development and improve their readiness to enter into the adult healthcare system. In this study, some factors were related to better TRAQ scores.

Adherence to treatment of children and adolescents recently diagnosed with auto-immune Rheumatic Diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract Objectives Adherence problems have a great impact on auto-immune Rheumatic Diseases (AIRD). The COVID-19 pandemic may have worsened treatment adherence. The aims of this study were to measure treatment adherence to identify an earlier risk of poor adherence and measure families' satisfaction with the health service during the pandemic. Methods Prospective observational study with 50 parents/children and adolescents with recent AIRD diagnosis. Initially, they answered questions (demographic data, disease) and completed the Pediatric Rheumatology Adherence Questionnaire (PRAQ), after 6 months they completed the Morisky-Green Test (MGT), Brief Medication Questionnaire (BMQ), Compliance Questionnaire for Rheumatology (CQR-19) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Questionnaire 3.0 (PedsQlTM-SSS). The patient's medical records from the previous 12 weeks were reviewed for global and medication adherence data. Results The mean global adherence score was 94.3 ± 10.0, for medication adherence 97.3 ± 9.3, and for PRAQ questionnaire 5.2 ± 1.5. The authors observed agreement between MGT, BMQ, CQR-19, PedsQLTM-SSS scores and medication adherence rate, but not with global adherence rate. There were no associations between demographic characteristics, disease diagnosis, and adherence. No associations between PRAQ scores and values and global/medication adherence rates were observed. No variables were shown to be predictors of good adherence. The mean PedsQLTM-SSS rate was 92.1 ± 6.8. Conclusion The high values of MGT, BMQ, CQR-19 questionnaire scores were in agreement with the medication adherence rate. Despite the pandemic, the global and medication adherence rates were good. It was not possible to demonstrate the PRAQ's predictive power. The authors weren't able to establish an association between families' satisfaction and treatment adherence rates.

Randomized clinical trial with fractional CO2 laser and Clobetasol in the treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: a clinic study of feasibility.

OBJECTIVES: The main objective of the study was to describe and compare the feasibility of using fractional CO2 laser to the usual treatment with Clobetasol. Randomized clinical trials brought together 20 women from a Brazilian university hospital, 9 of them were submitted to Clobetasol treatment and 11 to laser therapy. Sociodemographic data were obtained and quality of life parameters, vulvar anatomy, self-perception and histopathological analysis of vulvar biopsies were evaluated. Evaluations were made before the beginning of the treatment, during its implementation, right after its completion (3 months), and 12 months after. The SPSS 14.0 software was used, obtaining descriptive measurements. The level of significance adopted was 5%. RESULTS: The clinical/anatomical characteristics of the vulva did not differ between the treatment groups, as much before as after its performance. There was no statistically significant difference between the treatments performed regarding the impact on the life quality of the patients. A higher satisfaction degree with the treatment was obtained with the patients in the Laser group in the third month of evaluation. Laser therapy also revealed higher occurrence of telangiectasia after treatment completion. Fractional CO2 laser has proven to be well accepted and is a promising therapeutic option. Registration number and name of trial registry The institutional review board status was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of HU/ UFJF under advisory number 2881073 and registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials, with consent under registration RBR-4p9s5y. Access link: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-4p9s5y.

Adherence to treatment of children and adolescents recently diagnosed with auto-immune Rheumatic Diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVES: Adherence problems have a great impact on auto-immune Rheumatic Diseases (AIRD). The COVID-19 pandemic may have worsened treatment adherence. The aims of this study were to measure treatment adherence to identify an earlier risk of poor adherence and measure families' satisfaction with the health service during the pandemic. METHODS: Prospective observational study with 50 parents/children and adolescents with recent AIRD diagnosis. Initially, they answered questions (demographic data, disease) and completed the Pediatric Rheumatology Adherence Questionnaire (PRAQ), after 6 months they completed the Morisky-Green Test (MGT), Brief Medication Questionnaire (BMQ), Compliance Questionnaire for Rheumatology (CQR-19) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Questionnaire 3.0 (PedsQlTM-SSS). The patient's medical records from the previous 12 weeks were reviewed for global and medication adherence data. RESULTS: The mean global adherence score was 94.3 ± 10.0, for medication adherence 97.3 ± 9.3, and for PRAQ questionnaire 5.2 ± 1.5. The authors observed agreement between MGT, BMQ, CQR-19, PedsQLTM-SSS scores and medication adherence rate, but not with global adherence rate. There were no associations between demographic characteristics, disease diagnosis, and adherence. No associations between PRAQ scores and values and global/medication adherence rates were observed. No variables were shown to be predictors of good adherence. The mean PedsQLTM-SSS rate was 92.1 ± 6.8. CONCLUSION: The high values of MGT, BMQ, CQR-19 questionnaire scores were in agreement with the medication adherence rate. Despite the pandemic, the global and medication adherence rates were good. It was not possible to demonstrate the PRAQ's predictive power. The authors weren't able to establish an association between families' satisfaction and treatment adherence rates.

Selenylated Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine Induces Cell Senescence and Oxidative Stress in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells.

Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines (IPs) have been studied regarding drug development. The objective of this work was to evaluate the antileukemic capacity of IP derivatives by screening their ability as a pro-oxidant. IP derivatives were synthesized and oral bioavailability and toxicity were analyzed in silico. Redox screening was performed on human Kasumi, KG-1, K562, and Jurkat leukemia cells. The IP derivative and the most responsive leukemic cell were selected for cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, cell senescence, and oxidative stress assays. The predictive toxicity analysis showed a possible effect on the reproductive system, but without mutagenic, carcinogenic, or irritability effects. MRK-107 against K562 cells was the compound that showed the best redox profile. MRK-107 did not induce cell death in K562 and monocyte cells. However, this compound was able to decrease cell proliferation and increase cell senescence after 48 and 72 h. Furthermore, MRK-107 induced oxidative stress in K562 cells after 72 h, increasing lipid peroxidation and decreasing reduced glutathione (GSH) contents. This study demonstrated that MRK-107-induced senescence with the involvement of oxidative stress is a possible mechanism of action, addressing this compound as a potential antitumor drug against chronic myeloid leukemia.

Novel 4-aminoquinolines: Synthesis, inhibition of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase, antitubercular activity, SAR, and preclinical evaluation.

Herein a series of 4-aminoquinolines were synthesized in an attempt to optimize and study the structural features related to LABIO-17 biological activity, a Mycobacterium tuberculosis NADH-dependent enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (MtInhA) inhibitor previously identified by a virtual-ligand-screening approach. Structure-activity relationships led to novel submicromolar inhibitors of MtInhA and potent antitubercular agents. The lead compound is 87-fold more potent as enzymatic inhibitors and 32-fold more potent against M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain in comparison with LABIO-17. These molecules were also active against multidrug-resistant strains, devoid of apparent toxicity to mammalian cells and showed favorable in vitro ADME profiles. Additionally, these compounds were active in an intracellular model of tuberculosis (TB) infection, showed no genotoxicity signals, satisfactory absorption parameters and absence of in vivo acute toxicity. Finally, treatment with selected 4-aminoquinoline for two weeks produced bacteriostatic effect in a murine model of TB. Taken together, these findings indicate that this chemical class may furnish candidates for the future development of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant tuberculosis treatments.

Identification of potential inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis shikimate kinase: molecular docking, in silico toxicity and in vitro experiments.

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the main causes of death from a single pathological agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). In addition, the emergence of drug-resistant TB strains has exacerbated even further the treatment outcome of TB patients. It is thus needed the search for new therapeutic strategies to improve the current treatment and to circumvent the resistance mechanisms of Mtb. The shikimate kinase (SK) is the fifth enzyme of the shikimate pathway, which is essential for the survival of Mtb. The shikimate pathway is absent in humans, thereby indicating SK as an attractive target for the development of anti-TB drugs. In this work, a combination of in silico and in vitro techniques was used to identify potential inhibitors for SK from Mtb (MtSK). All compounds of our in-house database (Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, CPBMF) were submitted to in silico toxicity analysis to evaluate the risk of hepatotoxicity. Docking experiments were performed to identify the potential inhibitors of MtSK according to the predicted binding energy. In vitro inhibitory activity of MtSK-catalyzed chemical reaction at a single compound concentration was assessed. Minimum inhibitory concentration values for in vitro growth of pan-sensitive Mtb H37Rv strain were also determined. The mixed approach implemented in this work was able to identify five compounds that inhibit both MtSK and the in vitro growth of Mtb.

Factors related to the readiness of Brazilian chronic pediatric patients to transition to care in adult clinics.

OBJECTIVE: Advances in medicine have increased the life expectancy of pediatric patients with chronic illnesses, and challenges with the guided transition of adolescents and young adults from pediatric clinics to adult clinics have grown. The aim of this study was to better understand readiness and factors related to this transition process in Brazil. METHOD: In this cross-sectional study of 308 patients aged from 16 to 21 years under follow-up in pediatric specialties, the degree of readiness for transition was assessed using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) and its domains. Associations with demographic data, clinical data, socio-economic level, medication adherence, family functionality, and parental satisfaction with health care were evaluated. RESULTS: The median TRAQ score was 3.7 (3.2 - 4.2). Better readiness was associated with female patients, socio-economic class A-B, current active employment, higher level of education, not failing any school year, attending medical appointments alone, functional family, and a good knowledge of disease and medications. A low correlation was observed between TRAQ and age. TRAQ presented good internal consistency (alpha-Cronbach 0.86). In the multiple linear regression, TRAQ score showed a significant association with female gender, advanced age, socio-economic class A-B, better knowledge of disease and medications, and independence to attend appointments alone. CONCLUSION: TRAQ instrument can guide healthcare professionals to identify specific areas of approach, in order to support adolescents with chronic disease to set goals for their own personal development and improve their readiness to enter into the adult healthcare system. In this study, some factors were related to better TRAQ scores.

Assessment of websites on cleft lip and palate in Brazilian Portuguese

ABSTRACT Purpose: this study aimed at assessing the legibility, reliability, usability and coverage of websites on cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) in Brazilian Portuguese and providing a global comparison. Methods: in order to evaluate the obtained data, four protocols were used, i.e., the Website Coverage Protocol, the legibility (by means of the COH METRIX PORT), the reliability (Discern Protocol), and the usability (by means of the System Usability Scale). Results: 98 websites were included with average legibility scoring of 31.6±11.7, rated as a hard readability level. Coverage average scoring was 19.9±3.79 from a total of 35 points. As for reliability, average scoring was 43.2±6.51 points, rated as acceptable. The usability scoring was 24.8±2.18 points, rated as the worst imaginable one. Conclusion: therefore, the assessed Brazilian websites on CL/P were rated difficult for legibility, requiring high-school level of education, restricted coverage and acceptable reliability, in addition to the low usability. The results were similar to those of websites from other countries, except for the legibility aspect, which was lower for Brazilian websites.

[Validity and reliability of the 8-item EUROHIS-QOL to assess Brazilian adults' quality of life]. / Validade e confiabilidade do EUROHIS-QOL 8-item para avaliar a qualidade de vida em adultos brasileiros.

The study evaluated the psychometric properties of the EUROHIS-QOL 8-item scale in Brazilian adults. The EUROHIS-QOL is a measurement of quality of life developed based on the generic instruments of WHOQOL-100 and WHOQOL-BREF. Based on data from a prospective cohort of 1,100 adults, participants in the baseline in 2006 and 2007, exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency, reliability, and discriminant validity were performed via multitrait-multimethod analysis, with the calculation of the average variance extracted (AVE). Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted with 573 of these participants in 2013 to 2018. Solutions were tested with one and with two factors named functional capacity and socioeconomic conditions. Both solutions presented good internal consistency and reliability. The correlation between the items was 0.535, and the AVE was 0.397 for solution with one factor, and 0.528 and 0.341 for factors one and two, respectively, indicating good discriminant validity in the bifactorial solution. Both factors had eigenvalues greater than one and factor loadings ranging from 0.398 to 0.915. The adjustment of the unifactorial solution presented: χ2 = 186 (g.l. = 18), p < 0.001, RMSEA = 0.128 (90%CI: 0.111-0.145), CFI = 0.960, TLI = 0.938, and SMRM = 0.042; while in the bifactorial presented: χ2 = 135 (g.l. = 17), p < 0.001, RMSEA = 0.110 (90%CI: 0.093-0.128), CFI = 0.972, TLI = 0.954, and SMRM = 0.035. Overall, the results provide reasonable evidence for the construct validity and reliability of the EUROHIS-QOL 8-item. Instruments with fewer items, as in our case, provide greater practicality and are ideal for use in population-based studies with extensive samples.

O estudo avaliou as propriedades psicométricas da escala EUROHIS-QOL 8-item em adultos brasileiros. O EUROHIS-QOL 8-item é uma medida de qualidade de vida desenvolvida a partir dos instrumentos genéricos WHOQOL-100 e WHOQOL-BREF. A partir dos dados de uma coorte prospectiva com 1.100 adultos participantes da linha de base em 2006 e 2007, foram realizadas análise fatorial exploratória, consistência interna, confiabilidade e validade discriminante por meio da análise multitraço-multimétodo, com o cálculo das variâncias médias extraídas (AVE). A análise fatorial confirmatória foi conduzida com 573 desses participantes nos anos de 2013 a 2018. Foram testadas soluções com um e com dois fatores nomeados capacidade funcional e condições socioeconômicas. Ambas as soluções apresentaram boa consistência interna e confiabilidade. A correlação entre os itens foi de 0,535 e as AVE foram 0,397 para solução com um fator, e 0,528 e 0,341 para os fatores um e dois, respectivamente, indicando boa validade discriminante na solução bifatorial. Os dois fatores tiveram autovalores maiores que um e cargas fatoriais variando de 0,398 a 0,915. O ajustamento da solução unifatorial foi: χ2 = 186 (g.l. = 18), p < 0,001, RMSEA = 0,128 (IC90%: 0,111-0,145), CFI = 0,960, TLI = 0,938 e SMRM = 0,042; enquanto na bifatorial era: χ2 = 135 (g.l. = 17), p < 0,001, RMSEA = 0,110 (IC90%: 0,093-0,128), CFI = 0,972, TLI = 0,954 e SMRM = 0,035. De modo geral, os resultados fornecem evidências razoáveis da validade de construto e confiabilidade do EUROHIS-QOL 8-item. Instrumentos com menor número de itens, como é o caso, proporcionam maior praticidade e são ideais para utilização em estudos de base populacional com uso de amostras extensas.

El estudio evaluó las propiedades psicométricas de la escala EUROHIS-QOL 8-ítems (Europe Health Interview Surveys Quality of Life Abbreviated Instrument) en adultos brasileños. El índice de 8 ítems EUROHIS-QOL es una medida de calidad de vida desarrollada con base en los instrumentos genéricos WHOQOL-100 (World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument) y WHOQOL-BREF (World Health Organization Quality of Life Abbreviated Instrument). Con base en los datos de una cohorte prospectiva de 1.100 adultos que participaron en la línea de base en 2006 y 2007, se realizaron los análisis factorial exploratorio, de consistencia interna, de confiabilidad y de validez discriminante mediante un análisis multirrasgo-multimétodo, con el cálculo de la varianza media extraída (AVE). Se realizó un análisis factorial confirmatorio con 573 de estos participantes de 2013 hasta 2018. Se probaron soluciones de uno y dos factores denominados capacidad funcional y condiciones socioeconómicas. Ambas soluciones presentaron buena consistencia interna y confiabilidad. La correlación entre los ítems fue de 0,535 y las AVE fueron de 0,397 para la solución de un factor y de 0,528 y 0,341 para los factores uno y dos, respectivamente, lo que indica una buena validez discriminante en la solución bifactorial. Los dos factores tuvieron autovalores mayores a uno y cargas factoriales que oscilaron entre 0,398 y 0,915. El ajuste de la solución unifactorial fue: χ2 = 186 (g.l. = 18), p < 0,001, RMSEA = 0,128 (IC90%: 0,111-0,145), CFI = 0,960, TLI = 0,938 y SMRM = 0,042; mientras que en la bifactorial fue: χ2 = 135 (g.l. = 17), p < 0,001, RMSEA = 0,110 (IC90%: 0,093-0,128), CFI = 0,972, TLI = 0,954 e SMRM = 0,035. En general, los resultados proporcionan evidencias razonables de la validez de constructo y confiabilidad del EUROHIS-QOL 8-ítems. Los instrumentos con menor número de ítems, como es el caso, proporcionan mayor practicidad y son ideales para su uso en estudios de base poblacional con muestras amplias.

Influência do apoio social e capital social no consumo alimentar de adultos no sul do Brasil / Influence of social support and social capital on food consumption of adults in southern Brazil

Resumo Introdução As escolhas alimentares podem ser influenciadas por apoio social e capital social. Objetivo Investigar as relações do apoio social e capital social com o consumo alimentar. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de base populacional, com uma amostra aleatória de 1.098 adultos (≥ 18 anos de idade) de uma cidade no Sul do Brasil. O apoio social foi mensurado por meio da escala Medical Outcomes Study (MOS), e o capital social contemplou a avaliação dos indicadores de coesão social, apoio dos vizinhos, controle social informal, eficácia política e ação social. Para o consumo alimentar, utilizou-se de uma escala com base nas orientações do guia alimentar para a população brasileira. Resultados A média de idade da amostra foi de 44 anos (DP[Desvio-padrão] = 15,8), e identificou-se um consumo alimentar adequado em 38,6% (IC95%: 35,7 a 41,5). Após ajuste, observou-se uma probabilidade 40% maior para adoção de consumo alimentar adequado (saudável) entre os indivíduos com maior nível de apoio social (OR = 1,47; IC95%: 1,07 a 2,03), coesão social (OR = 1,40; IC95%: 1,02 a 1,92) e apoio dos vizinhos (OR = 1,45; IC95%: 1,04 a 2,02). Conclusão Os aspectos psicossociais, tanto individual quanto contextual, podem desempenhar um papel importante no consumo alimentar saudável em adultos.

Abstract Background Food choices can be influenced by psychosocial factors. Objective To investigate the relationships between social support and social capital with food consumption. Method This is a population-based cross-sectional study with a random sample of 1098 adults (≥18 years old) from a medium-sized city in southern Brazil. Social support was measured by Medical Outocomes Study (MOS) scale and social capital was assessed by social cohesion, neighbor support, informal social control, political effectiveness, and social action. For the assessment of food consumption was applied a scale based on the food guide for the Brazilian population. Results The mean age of the sample was 44 years (SD [Standard Deviation] = 15.8) and adequate food consumption was identified in 38.6% (95% CI: 35.7 to 41.5). After adjustment, there was a 40% higher probability of adopting adequate (healthy) food consumption among individuals with higher level of social support (OR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.07 to 2.03), cohesion. social (OR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.92) and support from neighbors (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.02). Conclusion Both individual and contextual psychosocial aspects can play an important role in healthy food consumption in adults.

Antitubercular Activity of Novel 2-(Quinoline-4-yloxy)acetamides with Improved Drug-Like Properties.

Using cycloalkyl and electron-donating groups to decrease the carbonyl electrophilicity, a novel series of 2-(quinoline-4-yloxy)acetamides was synthesized and evaluated as in vitro inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) growth. Structure-activity relationship studies led to selective and potent antitubercular agents with minimum inhibitory concentrations in the submicromolar range against drug-sensitive and drug-resistant Mtb strains. An evaluation of the activity of the lead compounds against a spontaneous qcrB mutant strain indicated that the structures targeted the cytochrome bc 1 complex. In addition, selected molecules inhibited Mtb growth in a macrophage model of tuberculosis infection. Furthermore, the leading compound was chemically stable depending on the context and showed good kinetic solubility, high permeability, and a low rate of in vitro metabolism. Finally, the pharmacokinetic profile of the compound was assessed after oral administration to mice. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, a 2-(quinoline-4-yloxy)acetamide was obtained with a sufficient exposure, which may enable in vivo effectiveness and its further development as an antituberculosis drug candidate.