Development and characterization of a multimeric recombinant protein using the spike protein receptor binding domain as an antigen to induce SARS-CoV-2 neutralization.

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV2 virus, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has four structural proteins and 16 nonstructural proteins. S-protein is one of the structural proteins exposed on the virus surface and is the main target for producing neutralizing antibodies and vaccines. The S-protein forms a trimer that can bind the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) through its receptor binding domain (RBD) for cell entry. AIMS: The goal of this study was to express in HEK293 cells a new RBD recombinant protein in a constitutive and stable manner in order to use it as an alternative immunogen and diagnostic tool for COVID-19. MATERIALS & METHODS: The protein was designed to contain an immunoglobulin signal sequence, an explanded C-terminal section of the RBD, a region responsible for the bacteriophage T4 trimerization inducer, and six histidines in the pCDNA-3.1 plasmid. Following transformation, the cells were selected with geneticin-G418 and purified from serum-fre culture supernatants using Ni2+-agarand size exclusion chromatography. The protein was structurally identified by cross-linking and circular dichroism experiments, and utilized to immunize mice in conjuction with AS03 or alum adjuvants. The mice sera were examined for antibody recognition, receptor-binding inhibition, and virus neutralization, while spleens were evaluated for γ-interferon production in the presence of RBD. RESULTS: The protein released in the culture supernatant of cells, and exhibited a molecular mass of 135 kDa with a secondary structure like the monomeric and trimeric RBD. After purification, it formed a multimeric structure comprising trimers and hexamers, which were able to bind the ACE2 receptor. It generated high antibody titers in mice when combined with AS03 adjuvant (up to 1:50,000). The sera were capable of inhibiting binding of biotin-labeled ACE2 to the virus S1 subunit and could neutralize the entry of the Wuhan virus strain into cells at dilutions up to 1:2000. It produced specific IFN-γ producing cells in immunized mouse splenocytes. DISCUSSION: Our data describe a new RBD containing protein, forming trimers and hexamers, which are able to induce a protective humoral and cellular response against SARS-CoV2. CONCLUSION: These results add a new arsenal to combat COVID-19, as an alternative immunogen or antigen for diagnosis.

Development and characterization of a multimericrecombinant protein using the spike protein receptorbinding domain as an antigen to induce SARS‐CoV‐2neutralization

Background: SARS‐CoV2 virus, responsible for the COVID‐19 pandemic, hasfour structural proteins and 16 nonstructural proteins. S‐protein is one of thestructural proteins exposed on the virus surface and is the main target forproducing neutralizing antibodies and vaccines. The S‐protein forms a trimerthat can bind the angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) through itsreceptor binding domain (RBD) for cell entry.Aims: The goal of this study was to express in HEK293 cells a new RBDrecombinant protein in a constitutive and stable manner in order to use it asan alternative immunogen and diagnostic tool for COVID‐19.Materials & Methods: The protein was designed to contain an immuno-globulin signal sequence, an explanded C‐terminal section of the RBD, aregion responsible for the bacteriophage T4 trimerization inducer, and sixhistidines in the pCDNA‐3.1 plasmid. Following transformation, the cells wereselected with geneticin‐G418 and purified from serum‐fre culture super-natants using Ni2+‐agarand size exclusion chromatography. The protein wasstructurally identified by cross‐linking and circular dichroism experiments,and utilized to immunize mice in conjuction with AS03 or alum adjuvants.The mice sera were examined for antibody recognition, receptor‐bindinginhibition, and virus neutralization, while spleens were evaluated forγ‐interferon production in the presence of RBD. Results: The protein released in the culture supernatant of cells, andexhibited a molecular mass of 135 kDa with a secondary structure like themonomeric and trimeric RBD. After purification, it formed a multimericstructure comprising trimers and hexamers, which were able to bind the ACE2receptor. It generated high antibody titers in mice when combined with AS03adjuvant (up to 1:50,000). The sera were capable of inhibiting binding ofbiotin‐labeled ACE2 to the virus S1 subunit and could neutralize the entry ofthe Wuhan virus strain into cells at dilutions up to 1:2000. It produced specificIFN‐γ producing cells in immunized mouse splenocytes.Discussion: Our data describe a new RBD containing protein, formingtrimers and hexamers, which are able to induce a protective humoral andcellular response against SARS‐CoV2.Conclusion: These results add a new arsenal to combat COVID‐19, as analternative immunogen or antigen for diagnosis.

Socio-occupational conditions and health of fishers exposed to the oil disaster-crime in Pernambuco, Brazil / Condições socio-ocupacionais e saúde de pescadores expostos ao desastre-crime do petróleo em Pernambuco

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the sociodemographic, socio-occupational profile, and effects on the health of artisanal fishers from the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, affected by the oil disaster-crime in Brazil in 2019. Methods: This is a cross-sectional epidemiological study, carried out in 16 municipalities on the coast of Pernambuco, with a sample made up of 1,259 artisanal fishers. A questionnaire containing 14 blocks was used, including socioeconomic issues, exposure to oil, among others. A descriptive analysis was carried out with calculation of simple frequencies and percentages. Results: Of those interviewed, 95.1% considered fishing as their main occupation and 97% were carrying out this activity. Among fishers, the most common fishing spot was the mangrove, and wood fire was used in the work process by around 60% of the population. Regarding health issues, 34.4% reported a severe headache or migraine and 28.2% reported burning eyes, within one to three months after the oil spill. Conclusion: According to the results, working, health, and lifestyle conditions were impacted by the oil disaster-crime. Further research should be carried out to better understand the damage caused by exposure to oil and its effects on the health of fishers. Observing the profile of people who live in artisanal fishing territories in Pernambuco is paramount for public policies and government actions that promote safe and sustainable territories.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os perfis sociodemográfico e socio-ocupacional e efeitos na saúde dos pescadores artesanais de Pernambuco afetados pelo desastre-crime do petróleo no Brasil em 2019. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico transversal, realizado em 16 municípios do litoral pernambucano, com amostra composta por 1.259 pescadores artesanais. Foi utilizado um questionário contendo 14 blocos, incluindo questões socioeconômicas, de exposição ao petróleo, entre outras. Foi realizada uma análise descritiva com cálculo de frequências simples e percentual. Resultados: No total, 95,1% das pessoas consideram a pesca como seu principal trabalho e 97% estavam exercendo essa atividade. Entre os pescadores, o local de pesca mais comum foi o mangue, e o fogo à lenha foi utilizado no processo de trabalho por cerca de 60% da população. Em relação a problemas de saúde, 34,4% relataram dor de cabeça forte ou enxaqueca e 28,2%, ardência nos olhos, no período de 1 a 3 meses após o derramamento de petróleo. Conclusão: As condições de trabalho, de saúde e de estilo de vida foram impactadas pelo desastre-crime do petróleo. Outras pesquisas deverão ser desenvolvidas para melhor compreender os danos da exposição ao petróleo e seus efeitos na saúde dos pescadores. Observar o perfil das pessoas que vivem nos territórios da pesca artesanal em Pernambuco é fundamental para políticas públicas e ações governamentais que promovam territórios saudáveis e sustentáveis.

Mental disorders in judicial workers: analysis of sickness absence in a cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze risk factors for sickness absence due to mental disorders among judicial workers in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: Retrospective cohort with follow-up from 2011 to 2016 with 2,660 workers of a judicial sector in Bahia, Brazil. The main outcome measures were survival curves estimated for the independent variables using the Kaplan-Meier product limit estimator and risk factors for the first episode of sickness absence calculated based on the Cox regression model. RESULTS: The survival estimate of the population of this study for the event was 0.90 and from the Cox model the risk factors for the first episode of sickness absence due to mental disorders were: female (HR = 1.81), occupation of magistrate (HR = 1.80), and age over 30 years old (HR = 1.84). In addition, the risk for new cases of sickness absence among women reached 4.0 times the risk for men, in 2015. The estimated relative risks of sickness absence and the observed survival reduction behavior over time add information to the literature on sociodemographic and occupational factors associated with sickness absence due to mental disorders in the public sector. CONCLUSION: These results highlight the need for further research to more precisely identify vulnerable groups at risk of preventable mental health-related sickness absence in the workplace, better identify the workplace organizational factors that contribute to these disorders as well as studies on the effectiveness of workplace interventions to improve mental health among judicial and other public sectors workers.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower limbs among artisanal fisherwomen / shellfish gatherers of Brazil / Prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos nos membros inferiores de pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras do Brasil

Introduction: Small-scale fishing is responsible for at least 40% of the fish consumed in the world. In Brazil, the worker in this sector is the artisanal fisherman, who accounts for one in every 200 Brazilians. Artisanal fishing is part of the informal economy; therefore, the pathologies that affect these fishermen are invisible in the country's official statistics. Musculoskeletal disorders represent a major socioeconomic and public health problem, but their prevalence is little known among non-formal workers. Objective: to estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the lower limbs and to verify the associated factors among artisanal fishermen/ fisherwomen from Saubara, Bahia, Brazil. Methodology: a cross-sectional study, using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), the Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and a questionnaire about physical demands, were used to collect information in a random sample of artisanal fishermen/shellfish gatherers, in 2013. Results: the prevalence of MSDs in lower limbs in the sample was 65.5% (n=137). The prevalence of MSDs in the thigh/knee segment, leg and ankle/foot were 48.7% (n=92), 47.7% (n=95) and 38.1% (n=72), respectively. There was also a high frequency of obesity, poor education, low wages, early age at onset of labor, and excessive workload. Factors such as age, smoking, physical demands, working time, absence of breaks and having had a previous job were associated with MSDs in the lower limbs. Conclusion: the high prevalence of MSDs in lower limbs in female artisanal fishermen indicates the need to develop strategies for prevention, diagnosis and reporting of these diseases.

Introdução: a pesca em pequena escala é responsável por pelo menos 40% do pescado consumido no mundo e, no Brasil, o trabalhador desse setor é o pescador artesanal, que contabiliza um a cada 200 brasileiros. Por se tratar de uma atividade da economia informal, as patologias que afetam esses pescadores são praticamente invisíveis nas estatísticas oficiais do país. Nesse contexto, os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos representam um grande problema socioeconômico e de saúde pública, mas sua prevalência é pouco conhecida entre trabalhadores não formais. Objetivo: estimar a prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos nos membros inferiores e fatores associados, em pescadores artesanais/marisqueiras de Saubara, Bahia, Brasil. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo transversal, utilizando o Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, a versão brasileira do Job Content Questionnaire e um questionário sobre demandas físicas, para a coleta de informações em uma amostra aleatória de pescadores artesanais/marisqueiras, ocorrida em 2013. Resultados: a prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos em membros inferiores na amostra foi de 65,5% (n=137); a prevalência no segmento coxa/joelho, perna e tornozelo/pé foi de 48,7% (n=92), 47,7% (n=95) e 38,1% (n=72), respectivamente. Observaram-se também alta frequência de obesidade, baixa escolaridade, baixos salários, idade precoce para o início do trabalho e carga horária excessiva. Fatores como idade, tabagismo, demandas físicas, tempo de trabalho, ausência de pausas e trabalho anterior, estavam associados aos referidos distúrbios. Conclusão: A alta prevalência de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos dos membros inferiores em pescadoras artesanais indica a necessidade de desenvolver estratégias de prevenção, diagnóstico e notificação dessas doenças

Mental disorders in judicial workers: analysis of sickness absence in a cohort study

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze risk factors for sickness absence due to mental disorders among judicial workers in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS Retrospective cohort with follow-up from 2011 to 2016 with 2,660 workers of a judicial sector in Bahia, Brazil. The main outcome measures were survival curves estimated for the independent variables using the Kaplan-Meier product limit estimator and risk factors for the first episode of sickness absence calculated based on the Cox regression model. RESULTS The survival estimate of the population of this study for the event was 0.90 and from the Cox model the risk factors for the first episode of sickness absence due to mental disorders were: female (HR = 1.81), occupation of magistrate (HR = 1.80), and age over 30 years old (HR = 1.84). In addition, the risk for new cases of sickness absence among women reached 4.0 times the risk for men, in 2015. The estimated relative risks of sickness absence and the observed survival reduction behavior over time add information to the literature on sociodemographic and occupational factors associated with sickness absence due to mental disorders in the public sector. CONCLUSION These results highlight the need for further research to more precisely identify vulnerable groups at risk of preventable mental health-related sickness absence in the workplace, better identify the workplace organizational factors that contribute to these disorders as well as studies on the effectiveness of workplace interventions to improve mental health among judicial and other public sectors workers.

Deterioration of anterior resin composite restorations in moderate to severe tooth wear patients: 3-year results.

OBJECTIVES: Deterioration in anterior resin composite restorations placed in tooth wear patients was investigated after 36 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data collected prospectively for 47 participants of the Radboud Tooth Wear Project were used (41 ± 8 years, 90% male, n = 270 restorations). Restorations were individually evaluated using intraoral photographs and 3D scans to rate modified FDI scores and to record the presence of degradation features. Four groups with distinct combinations of composites and techniques were assessed, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze the data (p < 0.05). RESULTS: For all groups together, early degradation signs were present at 1 month: irregularities (41.5%) and ditching (7.4%) were observed at the surface and adhesive interfaces. The frequency of irregularities decreased in the 36-month evaluation (37%), but ditching (12.2%) and fractures (10.7%) were more common. The most frequent deterioration (based on photographs) was observed for staining (44%) and loss of luster (31%). In 3D scans, the most frequent were for wear (25%), marginal adaptation (24%), and the presence of irregularities (19%). Canines had 5.5 times more chances of deterioration by ditching than incisors (p < 0.001). The differences between composites and restorative techniques were minor. CONCLUSIONS: A continuous degradation process of restorations placed in tooth wear patients was observed in anterior teeth restored with different composites, with a progression of the deterioration over 36 months. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: When placing anterior resin composite restorations in tooth wear patients, it could be important to establish realistic expectations and the need for checkup appointments.

Efetividade das terapias em grupo na qualidade de vida de pacientes com fibromialgia: uma revisão sistemática / Effectiveness of group therapies on the quality of life of patients with fibromyalgia: a systematic review

Introdução: A fibromialgia é uma síndrome dolorosa muito comum na prática clínica, caracterizada, principalmente, por dor musculoesquelética crônica e generalizada, bem como fadiga, rigidez articular e distúrbios do sono. No entanto, possui uma apresentação clínica bastante vasta e heterogênea, comprometendo diversas esferas da vida dos pacientes. O objetivo foi verificar a efetividade das terapias em grupo na qualidade de vida dos pacientes fibromiálgicos. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática, a qual buscou analisar as pesquisas relacionadas ao tema entre 2010 e 2020. A busca dos artigos ocorreu na BVS nas bases de dados LILACS e MEDLINE, sendo incluídos apenas artigos originais disponíveis na íntegra. Resultados: Foram encontradas 86 publicações científicas e, após exclusão de duplicados, aplicação de filtros e análise inicial, foram selecionados 6 artigos para compor o corpo amostral. Posteriormente, os artigos foram agrupados de acordo com a sua temática central em: 1) Efeitos positivos da terapia interdisciplinar em grupo nos sintomas físicos e psicossociais da fibromialgia; 2) Empoderamento do paciente no enfrentamento da fibromialgia; e 3) Qualidade da assistência profissional e a rede de apoio social da terapia em grupo. Conclusão: Verificou-se que a aplicação das terapias em grupos impactou, positivamente, a qualidade de vida dos pacientes em sua dimensão física, psicoemocional e social. Além disso, concluiu-se que incluir o paciente como protagonista do seu tratamento e construir uma rede de apoio são fundamentais para o enfrentamento da doença. [au]

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a very common pain syndrome in clinical practice, characterized mainly by chronic and generalized musculoskeletal pain, as well as fatigue, joint stiffness and sleep disorders. However, it has a very wide and heterogeneous clinical presentation, compromising several spheres of patients' lives. The objective was to verify the effectiveness of group therapies on the quality of life of fibromyalgia patients. Method: This is a systematic review, which sought to analyze research related to the topic between 2010 and 2020. The search for articles took place in the VHL in the LILACS and MEDLINE databases, including only original articles available in full. Results: 86 scientific publications were found and, after exclusion of duplicates, application of filters and initial analysis, 6 articles were selected to compose the sample body. Subsequently, the articles were grouped according to their central theme in: 1) Positive effects of interdisciplinary group therapy on the physical and psychosocial symptoms of fibromyalgia; 2) Empowerment of the patient in coping with fibromyalgia; and 3) Quality of professional assistance and the social support network of group therapy. Conclusion: It was found that the application of therapies in groups positively impacted the quality of life of patients in their physical, psycho-emotional and social dimensions. In addition, it was concluded that including the patient as the protagonist of their treatment and building a support network are essential for coping with the disease. [au]

Impacto do câncer em pacientes com doença arterial periférica / Impact of cancer in patients with peripheral artery disease

Introdução e Objetivo: O impacto do câncer em pacientes com DAP sobre nível de atividade física diária, capacidade funcional, função cardiovascular e qualidade de vida ainda não é conhecido, sendo, portanto, o objetivo deste presente estudo. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 299 pacientes. Nível de Atividade física (acelerômetro), capacidade funcional (teste de caminhada de 6 minutos, Handgrip, Short Physical Performance Battery, Walking Impairment Questionnaire-WIQ e o Walking Estimated-Limitation Calculated by History), função cardiovascular (pressão arterial braquial, variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e rigidez arterial) e qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-bref) foram comparados entre os pacientes com DAP com e sem histórico de câncer. Resultados: Pacientes com DAP e câncer (N=27) apresentaram melhor desempenho no domínio da distância e da velocidade do WIQ (21±37 vs 14±26, p=0.036; 29±18 vs 22±15, p=0.022, respectivamente) comparado aos pacientes com DP sem câncer. Os outros parâmetros foram similares entre os grupos. Conclusão: Os pacientes com DAP e câncer apresentaram

Introduction and Objective: The impact of cancer in patients with PAD on the level of daily physical activity, functional capacity, cardiovascular function and quality of life is not yet known, thus being the objective of this present study. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 299 patients. Physical activity level (accelerometer), functional capacity (6-minute walk test, Handgrip, Short Physical Performance Battery, Walking Impairment Questionnaire-WIQ and the Walking Estimated-Limitation Calculated by History), cardiovascular function (brachial blood pressure, variability of heart rate and arterial stiffness) and quality of life (WHOQOL-bref) were compared between patients with PAD with and without a history of cancer. Results: Patients with PAD and cancer (N=27) performed better in the distance and speed domains of the WIQ (21±37 vs 14±26, p=0.036; 29±18 vs 22±15, p=0.022, respectively) compared to PD patients without cancer. The other parameters were similar between groups. Conclusion: Patients with PAD and cancer had better results for subjectively assessed functional capacity.

Percepção de gestores e profissionais de saúde sobre o cuidado da obesidade infanto-juvenil no Sistema Único de Saúde / Health managers and professionals' perception on the care of child and adolescent obesity in Brazil's Unified Health System

Resumo O estudo teve como objetivo analisar a percepção de gestores e profissionais de saúde sobre o cuidado disponível para crianças e adolescentes com sobrepeso e obesidade no Sistema Único de Saúde em Sergipe, Brasil. Trata-se de estudo qualitativo e exploratório, com amostra composta por 46 atores e coleta de dados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. O cuidado existente foi percebido como falho e fragmentado, independentemente do nível de atenção à saúde. As principais dificuldades abrangeram o processo de trabalho, a gestão e organização do cuidado, a adesão familiar e a insuficiência de recursos. Potencialidades relacionadas à gestão, equipes e profissionais, que poderiam contribuir para a implantação de uma linha de cuidado integral, foram também identificadas. Contudo, a organização do cuidado à obesidade infantil ainda requer uma conectividade dos papéis e tarefas dos diversos atores, por meio da pactuação e corresponsabilização entre os serviços, profissionais e a família.

Abstract The study aimed to analyze the perception of health managers and professionals on the care of children and adolescents with overweight and obesity in the Unified Health System of Sergipe, Brazil. This is a qualitative and exploratory study with sample composed of 46 actors and semi-structured interviews as data collection method. The existing care was perceived as poor and fragmented, regardless of the health care level. The main difficulties were the professionals' work process, care management and organization, family support and insufficient resources. Potentialities related to management, teams and professionals, which could contribute to the implementation of a comprehensive care line, were also identified. However, the organization of care for child obesity still requires the connectivity of different actors' roles and tasks, with the agreement and co-responsibility between services, professionals and family.

Ceramic Laminate Veneers Luted with Preheated Resin Composite: A 10-Year Clinical Report.

Resin cement and preheated restorative resin composite may be used for luting laminate veneers. The main advantage of resin composite is increased wear resistance, which could lead to better marginal performance in long term. This article reports a clinical treatment with feldspar laminate veneers luted to the maxillary teeth with preheated resin composite in a private practice. Case was finalized in May 2009 and followed by 10 years. Excellent clinical service and remarkable long-lasting marginal integrity were observed after 123 months. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed no wear, gaps, or ditching at the margins. Restorative margins showed a smooth transition between ceramic and tooth with no signs of degradation. Preheated resin composite for luting ceramic laminate veneers may be considered an excellent clinical option.

Risk factors for absenteeism due to musculoskeletal diseases in workers in the judiciary sector.

Introduction: Musculoskeletal diseases represent an important health problem for workers, due to the degree of suffering caused by pain and to the high frequency of absenteeism. Objectives: To identify risk factors for absenteeism due to musculoskeletal disease in employees at a judiciary court and to describe incidence, frequency, and duration of sick leaves. Methods: This is a 6-year follow-up study conducted in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The dependent variable was absenteeism, measured by the time of the first sick leave in the period. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival functions, whereas risk factors for absenteeism were obtained by Cox regression. Results: Overall, 594 workers took sick leaves, with an incidence of 23% at the end of the period. The most frequent diagnoses were back pain (38.5%), shoulder lesions (11.7%), and synovitis and tenosynovitis (8.8%). Cases of one episode of sick leave per worker over the 6 years predominated (42.8%). Cox regression multivariate analysis identified the following variables as posing the greatest risk for sick leave: female sex (hazard ratio 1.39), age older than 40 years (hazard ratio 2.57), judicial technician workers (hazard ratio 1.48), and administrative workers (hazard ratio 1.30). Conclusions: Women, older adults, and individuals who hold technical positions are worthy of attention from health management department of the court, since they presented the highest rates of incapacity to work during the study period. Back pain was the main reason for musculoskeletal disability.

Introdução: As doenças musculoesqueléticas representam um importante agravo na saúde dos trabalhadores devido ao grau de sofrimento gerado pelos quadros de dor e às elevadas frequências de absenteísmo. Objetivos: Identificar os fatores de risco para o absenteísmo por doença musculoesquelética em trabalhadores de um tribunal do setor judiciário e descrever a incidência, os indicadores de frequência e a duração das licenças médicas. Métodos: Estudo com seguimento de 6 anos, conduzido na Bahia. A variável dependente foi absenteísmo, medida através do tempo até a primeira licença médica no período. Utilizou-se o método de Kaplan-Meier para estimar as funções de sobrevida, enquanto os fatores de risco para o absenteísmo foram obtidos pela regressão de Cox. Resultados: Um total de 594 trabalhadores apresentaram licenças médicas, sendo a incidência ao final do período igual a 23%. Observou-se maior frequência de diagnósticos de dorsalgia (38,5%), lesões no ombro (11,7%) e sinovite e tenossinovite (8,8%). Predominaram casos de episódio único de licença médica por trabalhador ao longo dos 6 anos (42,8%). A análise múltipla com regressão de Cox identificou as seguintes variáveis como de maior risco para o afastamento do trabalho: sexo feminino (hazard ratio 1,39), idade acima de 40 anos (hazard ratio 2,57), cargo de técnico judiciário (hazard ratio 1,48) e atuantes na área administrativa (hazard ratio 1,30). Conclusões: Mulheres, pessoas com maioridade e indivíduos que ocupam cargo técnico devem receber atenção da gestão do tribunal, visto que apresentaram a maior incapacidade para o trabalho no período estudado. As dorsalgias figuraram como o principal motivo da incapacidade musculoesquelética.

Viscosity and thermal kinetics of 10 preheated restorative resin composites and effect of ultrasound energy on film thickness.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated viscosity and thermal kinetics of 10 selected preheated restorative resin composites and the effect of ultrasound energy on film thickness. METHODS: A range of different resin composites was tested: Charisma Diamond, IPS Empress Direct, Enamel Plus HRi, Essentia, Estelite Omega, Filtek Z100, Filtek Z350 XT, Gradia, TPH Spectrum and VisCalor. A flowable resin composite (Opallis Flow) and two resin cements (RelyX Veneer, Variolink Esthetic LC) also were tested. Viscosity (Pa s) was measured at 37 °C and 69 °C (preheating temperature) using a rheometer. Film thickness (µm) was measured before and after application of ultrasound energy. Temperature loss within resin composite following preheating (°C/s) was monitored. Data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Viscosity at 69 °C was lower than at 37 °C for all materials except the flowable resin composite. Preheating reduced viscosity between 47% and 92% for the restorative resin composites, which were generally more viscous than the flowable materials. Film thickness varied largely among materials. All preheated resin composites had films thicker than 50 µm without ultrasound energy. Application of ultrasound reduced film thickness between 21% and 49%. Linear and nonlinear regressions did not identify any relationship between filler loading, viscosity, and/or film thickness. All materials showed quick temperature reduction following preheating, showing maximum temperature loss rates after approximately 10 s. SIGNIFICANCE: Distinct restorative resin composites react differently to preheating, affecting viscosity and film thickness. The overall performance of the preheating technique depends on proper material selection and use of ultrasound energy for reducing film thickness.

Degradation of antibiotic ciprofloxacin by different AOP systems using electrochemically generated hydrogen peroxide.

The present work reports the degradation of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) by different advanced oxidative process systems (UV; Anodic Oxidation; H2O2; H2O2/UV; H2O2/Fe2+ and H2O2/UV/Fe2+) in an electrochemical cell using gas diffusion electrode (GDE) for the synthesis of hydrogen peroxide. CIP degradation and mineralization were evaluated by high efficiency liquid chromatography (HPLC) and total organic carbon (TOC) techniques. Of all the systems investigated, the photoelectro-Fenton system presented the best degradation efficiency; this system promoted highly significant mineralization percentages of 54.8% and 84.6% in 90 and 360 min, and relatively lower energy consumption rates of 4110.0 and 9808.2 kWh kg-1 TOC, respectively. In 6 h period of experiment, the main degradation products of ciprofloxacin were identified, and the aliphatic acids obtained helped confirm the rupture of the aromatic ring. The application of the photoelectro-Fenton process with in situ eletroctrogeneration of H2O2 using GDE has proved to be suitably promising for the treatment of organic pollutants.

Servidores com deficiência vinculados à administração pública indireta no nordeste do Brasil / Disabled civil servants with ties to the indirect public administration in the northeast of Brazil / Servidores públicos con discapacidad vinculados a la administración pública indirecta en el noreste de Brasil

Resumo A Constituição Federal de 1988 estabeleceu vagas específicas às pessoas com deficiência no setor público brasileiro. O artigo teve por objetivo traçar o perfil demográfico e socioeconômico das pessoas com deficiência nos nove estados do Nordeste e compará-lo ao dos servidores sem deficiência, no ano de 2017. Estudo transversal com dados secundários da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais sobre 312.194 servidores. Calcularam-se as frequências de servidores com e sem deficiência segundo sexo, tipo de deficiência, faixa etária, escolaridade, ocupação, tipo de vínculo, tempo de emprego, remuneração e carga horária semanal. O percentual de pessoas com deficiência esteve abaixo de 2%, idade média 44,2 anos (DP 10,4), predomínio do sexo masculino, escolaridade fundamental completo e vínculo celetista. Ao estratificar por tipo de vínculo e demais variáveis, o servidor sem deficiência possui maior tempo de emprego, maior salário-hora, maior remuneração e menor carga horária semanal do que servidores com deficiência. A menor presença feminina entre as pessoas com deficiência no setor público e as menores remunerações percebidas no grupo de servidores com deficiência podem nortear, dentro desses espaços, a necessidade de mais políticas de inclusão e isonomia e de estudos nessa linha de investigação.

Abstract The 1988 Brazilian Federal Constitution established specific posts for disables people in the public sector. The present article had the goal of describing the demographic and socioeconomic profile of disabled persons in the nine states of the Northeastern region of Brazil and compare it to that of the civil servants without disabilities in 2017. It is a cross-sectional study with secondary data from the Annual List of Social Data about 312,194 civil servants. We calculated the frequencies of the civil servants with and without disabilities according to gender, type of disability, age group, level of schooling, occupation, type of employment bond, time on the job, wage, and weekly working hours. The percentage of people with disabilities was below 2%, and the sample had a mean age of 44.2 years (standard deviation: 10.4), a higher prevalence of the male gender, basic level of schooling, and their jobs were tied to the Brazilian Consolidated Labor Legislation. By stratifying by type of employment bond and other variables, the civil servant without disability has a longer time on the job, higher hourly wages, higher wages, and lower weekly working hours than the disabled civil servants. The lower presence of women among the persons with disabilities in the public sector, as well as the lower wages verified among the group of disabled civil servants may guide, within those spaces, the need for more policies of inclusion and isonomy, as well as for more studies following this line of investigation.

Resumen La Constitución Federal Brasileña de 1988 estableció plazas específicas para las personas con discapacidad en el sector público. El artículo tiene el objetivo de describir el perfil demográfico y socioeconómico de las personas con discapacidad en los nueve estados de la región Noreste de Brasil y compararlo con el de los servidores sin discapacidad en el año 2017. Se trata de un estudio transversal con datos secundarios de la Relación Anual de Informaciones Sociales sobre 312.194 servidores. Calculamos las frecuencias de servidores con y sin discapacidad según el género, el tipo de discapacidad, la franja etaria, la escolaridad, la ocupación, el tipo de vínculo, el tiempo en el trabajo, la remuneración y las horas semanales de trabajo. El porcentaje de personas con discapacidad estuvo abajo del 2%, y la muestra tenía edad media de 44,2 años (desviación estándar: 10,4), predominio del género masculino, escolaridad básica completa, y vínculo con la Consolidación de Leyes Laborales. Al estratificar por tipo de vínculo y por otras variables, el servidor sin discapacidad tiene más tempo en el trabajo, sueldo horario más alto, remuneración más alta, y menos horas de trabajo semanales que los servidores con discapacidad. La menor presencia femenina entre las personas con discapacidad en el sector público y las remuneraciones más bajas verificadas en el grupo de servidores con discapacidad pueden nortear, en eses espacios, la necesidad de más políticas de inclusión e isonomía, y de estudios en esa línea de investigación.

Factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders in artisanal fisherwomen/shellfish gatherers in Saubara, Bahia, Brazil. / Fatores associados com os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos em pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras em Saubara, Bahia, Brasil.

This article aims to identify the factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the neck/shoulder and distal upper limb in artisanal fisher/shellfish gatherers in Saubara, Bahia, Brazil. This cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted with shellfish gatherers. The Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ), the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and a questionnaire containing physical demands adapted to the labour of shellfish gatherers were used in this study. Factor analysis was performed to aggregate the physical demands. Multivariate analyses were performed according to the risk factors for MSDs in the neck or shoulder and MSDs in the distal upper limb. For MSDs in the neck or shoulders, a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.28 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.09-1.49) was found, according to the aggregate physical demands. For MSDs in the distal upper limb, the PRs were as follows: 1.26 (95% CI: 1.07-1.47) according to the daily hours devoted to work as shellfish gatherers, 0.74 (95% CI: 0.57-0.96) according to the development of other current work and 1.38 (95% CI: 1.05-1.83) according to the aggregate physical demands. The activities performed by shellfish gatherers contribute to the occurrence of MSDs.

O presente artigo tem como objetivo identificar os fatores associados com os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos (DME) em pescoço/ombro e membros superiores distais em pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras em Saubara, Bahia, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo de corte transversal realizado com 209 pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras. Foram utilizados para este estudo a versão brasileira do questionário de conteúdo do trabalho e do questionário nórdico e um questionário das demandas físicas para o trabalho. As análises multivariadas foram feitas de acordo com os principais fatores de risco para DME. Algumas demandas físicas agrupadas, nas etapas da coleta dos mariscos e na cata, se associaram, respectivamente, com DME em pescoço ou ombro [Razão de Prevalência - RP: 1,28 (IC95%: 1,09-1,49)] e DME em membros superiores distais [RP: 1,38 (IC95%: 1,05-1,83)], no modelo final ajustado. As RP ajustadas para DME em membros superiores distais foram de 1,26 (IC95%: 1,07-1,47), de acordo com as horas diárias dedicadas ao trabalho como marisqueira, e 0,74 (IC95%: 0,57-0,96) de acordo com o desenvolvimento de outro trabalho atualmente. O modo em que é desenvolvido o trabalho da marisqueira é importante para ocorrência dos DME.

Fatores associados com os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos em pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras em Saubara, Bahia, Brasil / Factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders in artisanal fisherwomen/shellfish gatherers in Saubara, Bahia, Brazil

Resumo O presente artigo tem como objetivo identificar os fatores associados com os distúrbios musculoesqueléticos (DME) em pescoço/ombro e membros superiores distais em pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras em Saubara, Bahia, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo de corte transversal realizado com 209 pescadoras artesanais/marisqueiras. Foram utilizados para este estudo a versão brasileira do questionário de conteúdo do trabalho e do questionário nórdico e um questionário das demandas físicas para o trabalho. As análises multivariadas foram feitas de acordo com os principais fatores de risco para DME. Algumas demandas físicas agrupadas, nas etapas da coleta dos mariscos e na cata, se associaram, respectivamente, com DME em pescoço ou ombro [Razão de Prevalência - RP: 1,28 (IC95%: 1,09-1,49)] e DME em membros superiores distais [RP: 1,38 (IC95%: 1,05-1,83)], no modelo final ajustado. As RP ajustadas para DME em membros superiores distais foram de 1,26 (IC95%: 1,07-1,47), de acordo com as horas diárias dedicadas ao trabalho como marisqueira, e 0,74 (IC95%: 0,57-0,96) de acordo com o desenvolvimento de outro trabalho atualmente. O modo em que é desenvolvido o trabalho da marisqueira é importante para ocorrência dos DME.

Abstract This article aims to identify the factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the neck/shoulder and distal upper limb in artisanal fisher/shellfish gatherers in Saubara, Bahia, Brazil. This cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted with shellfish gatherers. The Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ), the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and a questionnaire containing physical demands adapted to the labour of shellfish gatherers were used in this study. Factor analysis was performed to aggregate the physical demands. Multivariate analyses were performed according to the risk factors for MSDs in the neck or shoulder and MSDs in the distal upper limb. For MSDs in the neck or shoulders, a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.28 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.09-1.49) was found, according to the aggregate physical demands. For MSDs in the distal upper limb, the PRs were as follows: 1.26 (95% CI: 1.07-1.47) according to the daily hours devoted to work as shellfish gatherers, 0.74 (95% CI: 0.57-0.96) according to the development of other current work and 1.38 (95% CI: 1.05-1.83) according to the aggregate physical demands. The activities performed by shellfish gatherers contribute to the occurrence of MSDs.

Chondrogenic effect of liquid and gelled platelet lysate on canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells.

Osteoarthritis associated with hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic abnormalities in dogs, with an incidence of up to 40% in some breeds. Tissue therapy of cartilage has received great attention, with use of mesenchymal stromal cells and different types of biomaterials. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of platelet lysate (PL) on the proliferation and differentiation of canine adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ASCs), in liquid culture or hydrogels. PL was prepared from blood collected from healthy dogs and submitted to freezing-thawing cycles, and hydrogel was formed with canine thrombin. The effect of PL on the proliferation and differentiation of canine ASCs was evaluated in liquid and hydrogel systems, with microscopy, quantification of dsDNA, histology and quantification of glycosaminoglycans. The addition of 5% or 10% PL to the culture medium induced a greater proliferation rate than the presence of 10% fetal bovine serum. The cultivation of ASCs in PL gel, with normal or chondrogenic medium, resulted in maintenance of proliferation level similar to the conventional 2D cultivation, and induction of chondrogenic differentiation, especially in the presence of the chondrogenesis induction medium.

Prevalence and Work-Related Factors Associated with Lower Back Musculoskeletal Disorders in Female Shellfish Gatherers in Saubara, Bahia-Brazil.

Lower back musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are an important public health problem and the leading cause of disability worldwide, but with yet unknown prevalence among shellfish gatherers. To investigate the prevalence and work-related factors associated with lower back MSD in a population of female shellfish gatherers, an epidemiological cross-sectional study was carried out in Saubara, Bahia-Brazil, in 2013. The Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), in addition to a questionnaire containing the physical demands adapted to the artisanal work, were applied to a random sample of 209 female shellfish gatherers. The prevalence of lower back MSD was 72.7%. Using multivariate logistic regression, the shellfish gatherers who had worked for more than 26 years in the activity showed a prevalence of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.04⁻1.44) times higher compared to those unexposed. Lower back MSD was 1.24 (95% CI: 1.08⁻1.42) times higher among those more exposed to work sitting with trunk flexion. Those performed manual handling and muscle force with the arms had a prevalence ratio of 1.18 (95% CI: 1.01⁻1.39). These results show the need for greater awareness of health and social welfare factors impacting workers in small-scale fisheries and will promote the elaboration of health care policies for this occupational class.

Switching of biological therapies in Brazilian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

AIM: To assess drug switching, rates of remission and disease activity in Brazilian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with biologic agents. MATERIALS & METHODS: Using a retrospective method, a total of 94 adult patients were included. RESULTS: Anti-TNF was the first choice therapy in 85 (90.4%) patients. After an average of 8 years of follow-up, 55 (59%) patients were taking anti-TNF, 18 (19%) abatacept, eight (9%) tocilizumab and 13 (14%) rituximab. In this period, 99 switches of biological therapy were registered in 55 patients. CONCLUSION: After 8 years of follow-up, 54% of the RA patients on biological therapy were still experiencing high or moderate activity despite established treatment, including switching between different biologic agents.